The Fijian Drua Women’s rugby team is set to begin their 2025 Super W season with an exciting match against the NSW Waratahs at Allianz Stadium in Sydney this Friday. Head coach Ifereimi Rawaqa has appointed Vika Matarugu as the new captain, succeeding Karalaini Naisewa, who led the team to the finals last year. Matarugu expressed her surprise and honor at being chosen for this leadership role, attributing her selection to her dedication and hard work.
Matarugu will be supported by Vitalina Naikore as vice-captain. Both players have significant experience, having contributed to the team’s successes in the past, including history-making moments in the Super W. Naikore notably scored three tries in the 2022 finals against the Waratahs before taking part in the NRLW for the last two seasons.
The Drua Women are integrating six newcomers into the squad, which includes Olympic bronze medalist Alowesi Nakoci, alongside fellow debutants Alfreda Fisher, Josivini Naihamu, and Salaseini Railumu. This infusion of talent, combined with seasoned players like Matarugu and Naikore, sets a hopeful tone for their performance this season.
The match will be broadcast live on FBC Sports, starting at 6:05 PM local time, and it is anticipated to be a thrilling contest as the team aims to reclaim its competitive edge after recent challenges. Coach Rawaqa remains optimistic despite a pre-season setback against the Brumbies, highlighting the resilience and determination displayed by his players. The team is focused on fine-tuning their strategies and building on their prior experiences to succeed against the Waratahs.
With a strong blend of youth and experience, the Drua Women aim not only to excel on the field but also to promote the growth of women’s rugby in Fiji and the Pacific. Fans can look forward to an inspiring season filled with potential as the team embarks on this new journey.
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