The inaugural Ba Tikina Championship held last year significantly contributed to the Ba Rugby team’s advancement to the quarter-finals of the Skipper Cup competition earlier this year. At the opening of the 2024 Ba Tikina Championships round one at Vinod Patel Park, Ba Rugby Union secretary Gabby Kautoga highlighted the importance of the Tikina Cup.
Kautoga noted the strong turnout for the event, stating, “The Tikina Cup is very important to us, and we have seen a good turnout today.” He emphasized that every team had adequately prepared and the level of competition had improved compared to last year.
“This competition provides our players with game time as we anticipate the Skipper Cup would likely commence early next year, allowing our boys ample time to get ready,” Kautoga added. He mentioned that following the Tikina Cup, there would be a ‘Battle of the Bridge,’ which will serve as the final trials for all teams before selecting the Ba squad for the Skipper Cup competition.
Kautoga expressed that the championship effectively bridges the gap between club level and the Skipper Cup level. He mentioned that the competition lasts for five weeks and represents more than just rugby, as it fosters unity within the Tikina community.
As for the results of the Ba Industries Cup, Savatu triumphed over Naloto with a score of 29-17, Veiyasana defeated Yakete 37-10, Nailaga edged Bulu 10-8, and Magodro lost to Qaloyalatina, with a score of 18-23.