Fijian Drua CEO Mark Evans has emphasized the critical importance of prompt payments for allowances owed to players amidst ongoing disputes between the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) and its athletes. Several Drua players, who also participate in the Flying Fijians squad, have yet to receive their allowances from the FRU related to the June-July test series, causing frustration within the rugby community over the financial difficulties faced by Fiji’s athletes.
Evans commented, “Players should be paid monies owed in a timely fashion,” addressing the current challenges between the FRU and its players. He clarified that Drua-contracted players receive their salaries bi-weekly for the entire year, regardless of their participation in the national team.
“Players contracted with the Drua are paid their salaries by us fortnightly for 12 months of the year whether they are in the national squad or not,” he stated. He noted that these earnings are unaffected by any delays in the payment of international allowances by the FRU, which means concerns regarding morale, injuries, well-being, and performance do not arise in relation to the Drua players’ regular payments.
While acknowledging the troubling situation surrounding the unpaid allowances, Evans reiterated the Drua’s independence from the FRU. “We view the situation as most unfortunate – of course the players should be paid monies owed in a timely fashion. We are not part of the operation of any FRU financial arrangements.”
He urged that questions about the FRU’s financial matters should be directed to their board and executive team, who are tasked with resolving these issues. “They have a board and an executive team who can be asked to explain any issues,” he added.
Evans’ remarks underscored the necessity for accountability and timely payments, which are essential to the well-being and performance of players representing Fiji on the international stage.