Kara Naisewa has been appointed as captain of the Rooster Chicken Fijian Drua women’s team as they prepare to face the Queensland Reds in their Smartech Super Rugby Women’s semi-final in Brisbane this Sunday. This change comes as the regular captain, Vika Matarugu, will be sidelined due to injury.
Head coach Ifereimi Rawaqa has implemented significant changes to the matchday squad, with 14 new inclusions. Among these changes, Bitila Tawake will take over the loosehead prop position, Anasimeci Korovata will serve at tighthead, and Keleni Marawa will act as the hooker. The lock positions will feature Mereoni Nakesa along with Asinate Serevi, while Naisewa plays as number eight in the loose forwards, supported by Alfreda Fisher and Salaseini Railumu.
In the backline, Kolora Lomani retains the halfback role, and Salanieta Kinita returns as flyhalf. On the wings, Alowesi Nakoci and Repeka Tove have been selected, while Ema Adivitaloga steps in for the injured Josivini Naihamu at inside centre. The vice-captain, Vitalina Naikore, will play at outside centre, with Luisa Tisolo taking the fullback position.
On the bench, the team has strong options, including Isabella Koi, Loraini Senivutu, and Tiana Robanakadavu for front-row depth, along with Nunia Daunimoala and Rusila Nagasau for the forwards. Additional backline support will come from Setaita Railumu, Merewairita Neivosa, and Evivi Senikarivi.
This will be the fourth consecutive semi-final for the Drua, and they are eager to advance towards the championship title. The match is scheduled to kick off at 3:05 PM at Ballymore Stadium in Brisbane, with local fans ready to rally behind their team.
The Drua’s journey represents a significant evolution in women’s rugby in the Pacific region. Their efforts not only aim for on-field success but also seek to inspire future generations of female athletes. The enthusiasm surrounding this semi-final is a testament to the growing support for women’s rugby, offering hope for a bright future in the sport.
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