The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua are gearing up for a pivotal clash against the Hurricanes this Saturday at McLean Park in Napier, as they seek their first win of the 2025 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season. After a narrow 36-32 loss to the ACT Brumbies in their opening match, both teams are looking for redemption as they navigate the early challenges of the tournament.
Head Coach Glen Jackson has made notable changes to the Drua’s lineup, implementing 15 adjustments to address previous weaknesses. The forward pack will see the return of tighthead prop Mesake Doge and the introduction of Zuriel Togiatama at hooker. The back row will be bolstered by flankers Meli Derenalagi and Motikiai Murray, with Elia Canakaivata taking the No. 8 position. A key debutant, Inia Tabuavou, will play at inside center alongside Tuidraki Samusamuvodre, showcasing the team’s focus on integrating fresh talent.
Jackson emphasized the importance of discipline and effective breakdown management, critical areas where the Drua have historically faced difficulties. He noted that achieving clean ball against a formidable Hurricanes unit is essential for success. Recent match simulations have aimed to enhance these skills, fostering a renewed sense of confidence and determination among the team.
This match not only offers an opportunity to score points but also serves as an emotional turning point for the Drua, who have faced obstacles in away games in the past. The stakes are high, with the team eager to build momentum early in the tournament. Support from the passionate Fijian community in the region is expected to boost morale, with fans turning out in full force to back their team.
Key players such as flyhalf Caleb Muntz and captain Frank Lomani are set to play critical roles in steering the team towards victory. Their experience and tactical insight will be instrumental in transforming the lessons learned from previous matches into a winning strategy.
As anticipation grows for this exciting matchup, there is a collective hope among fans that the Drua can leverage their previous setbacks as a foundation for success. With kick-off scheduled for 3:35 PM, viewers are encouraged to watch live on FBC Sports, as this match could serve as a turning point for the Drua’s season, igniting aspirations for a promising path ahead.
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