The Ba Tikina Championship, which took place for the first time last year, significantly contributed to the Ba Rugby team’s success in reaching the quarter-finals of the Skipper Cup competition earlier this year. Gabby Kautoga, the secretary of Ba Rugby Union, made these remarks during the opening of the 2024 Ba Tikina Championships round one at Vinod Patel Park.
Kautoga expressed the importance of the Tikina Cup, noting the strong attendance at the event. He mentioned that all participating teams had adequately prepared and that the quality of competition had noticeably improved compared to the previous year.
“This competition provides our players with valuable game time, especially with the Skipper Cup likely starting early next year, allowing our athletes to fine-tune their readiness,” Kautoga explained. He highlighted that following the Tikina Cup, there would be a “Battle of the Bridge,” serving as the final trials for selecting the Ba team for the Skipper Cup competition.
Kautoga stated that the championship serves as a bridge from club level to the Skipper Cup level, emphasizing its broader significance beyond just rugby. He noted that the competition spans over five weeks and has effectively united the community.
In recent Ba Industries Cup results, Savatu defeated Naloto 29-17, Veiyasana won against Yakete 37-10, Nailaga edged Bulu 10-8, and Qaloyalatina triumphed over Magodro 23-18.