The Rooster Chicken Fijian Drua women’s rugby team is prepared to face the Queensland Reds this Saturday at Churchill Park in Lautoka. Head coach Ifereimi Rawaqa has retained the same starting lineup that secured a strong victory against the NSW Waratahs, but made adjustments on the bench with four new additions to strengthen the team’s depth.
The match 23 squad includes notable sibling pairs with Karalaini Naisewa and Keleni Marawa as well as Salaseini and Setaita Railumu, highlighting the team’s familial ties and collaborative spirit. In the starting lineup, Salanieta Nabuli takes the position of loosehead prop, while captain Vika Matarugu plays tighthead and Keleni Marawa holds the hooker spot. The lock partners are Mereoni Nakesa and Asinate Serevi, and rookie flankers Alfreda Fisher and Salaseini Railumu will be aiming to build on their impressive early performances.
In the backline, the team showcases Kolora Lomani at halfback, with Salanieta Kinita as flyhalf. The wings are covered by tough-tackling Alowesi Nakoci and Repeka Tove, and Josivini Naihamu and vice-captain Vitalina Naikore add experience in the midfield, while Luisa Tisolo completes the lineup at fullback.
On the bench, Rawaqa has included Loraini Senivutu as the backup hooker, Ana Korovata as loosehead cover, and Tiana Robanakadavu for tighthead support. Merevesi Ofakimalino returns to Super Rugby W after a two-year absence, while Nunia Daunimoala is back from injury and also features on the bench. Setaita Railumu will step in as halfback cover, with Litiana Vueti and Merewairita Neivosa completing the reserve squad.
Kickoff for this exciting match is set for 1:05 PM, and fans are eagerly looking forward to witnessing the Drua women’s team’s performance as they aim to build on their recent success and enhance the visibility of women’s rugby in the region. The positive atmosphere surrounding the team hints at a hopeful season ahead, full of potential victories and inspiring moments for aspiring athletes.
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