The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua will bring Super Rugby Pacific to Ba for the first time this season when they host the ACT Brumbies at 4R Electrical Govind Park this afternoon, kick-off 3.30pm. The game marks a notable moment in the Drua’s push to deepen ties with provincial communities, with captain Frank Lomani saying the squad has been energised by the warm reception during training sessions in the town.
“Ah, yes, first game in Ba, it’s so exciting. We go to training there, and the support in Ba is really awesome,” Lomani said, adding the team is determined to reward the fans with a strong performance. “We’re looking forward to going to play there. The boys are really prepared well.” His comments underlined the atmosphere around the camp as local supporters have turned out to watch sessions and cheer on the side ahead of the clash with the Canberra-based visitors.
The match is the latest development in a broader Drua programme to stage fixtures and activities across Fiji. Earlier in the build-up to the season the Drua arranged a high-profile pre-season trial against a Fiji Provincial Select XV at Churchill Park in Lautoka — part of head coach Glen Jackson’s stated aim to strengthen links between the Super Rugby franchise and domestic competitions. Taking a Super Rugby fixture to Ba continues that approach by bringing top-level rugby closer to communities outside Suva.
For Ba, hosting the Brumbies at 4R Electrical Govind Park is a boost for local rugby followers and for the town’s sporting profile. The Drua have attracted strong grassroots backing since their entry into Super Rugby, and today’s game gives fans the chance to see international-calibre players on their home turf. Local supporters were visible during the team’s preparations and officials have spoken of significant interest from across the region.
The Brumbies arrive as one of the Australian conference’s regular competitors, setting up a tough test for the Drua as the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season continues. The match outcome will be watched closely by fans and pundits alike as the Drua seek momentum on home soil and to build cohesion within a squad that has blended local talent with experienced recruits.
Supporters unable to attend in person can watch the match live on FBC Sports via the Walesi set-top box. The broadcast availability ensures Fijians nationwide can follow the action, a point Lomani highlighted indirectly when he spoke of the importance of repaying fan support with effort and results on the field.
With kick-off at 3.30pm, the Drua will aim to turn the strong local backing into a performance that signals their intent for the remainder of the Super Rugby Pacific campaign.
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