Former Flying Fijians winger Nemani Nadolo has taken to social media to express his outrage about the treatment of the Fijian Drua upon their arrival in New Zealand for a Super Rugby match against the Hurricanes. His frustration centers on the team’s lack of transportation, as they arrived at Auckland’s airport only to find no arrangements made, forcing them to travel in the back of a truck intended for luggage to reach their hotel.
Nadolo’s post was particularly critical of the lack of support, highlighting that while the Hurricanes enjoyed comfortable accommodations and received late checkout privileges, the Drua were left in lesser circumstances. He questioned the disparity, asking, “Can you imagine an Australian or New Zealand team ever being put through something like this?”
The incident sparked discussions about the treatment of visiting teams in Super Rugby, especially in light of the warm welcomes that overseas teams receive when they visit Fiji, often greeted with police escorts and high-quality hospitality. This contrast has led to further scrutiny of fairness within the league.
The emotional toll of these logistical issues was apparent in the Drua’s narrow defeat to the Hurricanes, finishing at 38-34. Captain Frank Lomani echoed Nadolo’s frustrations and acknowledged that the travel issues may have contributed to the team’s performance, though he remained optimistic about the young talent within the squad and their ability to bounce back.
Head coach Glen Jackson stressed his pride in the team’s determination to overcome such challenges. As the Drua look ahead to their upcoming match against the Chiefs, there is a shared hope that the challenges faced this time around will serve as a learning experience, strengthening their resolve and performance for the rest of the season.
The recent experience has opened a broader dialogue about the equity of treatment for teams in Super Rugby, underscoring the importance of respect and support in the competitive landscape of the sport. The Drua aim to turn these obstacles into opportunities for growth, reflecting the enduring resilience and strength of Fijian rugby.
Leave a comment