Fiji’s national women’s rugby league team, known as the Bulikula, has set an ambitious goal of qualifying for the 2025 Women’s Rugby League World Cup and achieving a top-eight ranking. Head coach Josaia Rabele expressed excitement over the team’s progress as they recently made a significant leap in the International Rugby League (IRL) rankings, moving from 26th to 16th place.
Rabele noted the pride in seeing Fijian women ranked above countries such as Nigeria, Kenya, and the Philippines. The Bulikula is gearing up to face Ireland, Canada, and Nigeria in the World Series this October, an event that serves as a qualifying tournament for the World Cup in Canada. The coach emphasized the team’s focus on winning the World Series to secure their place in the World Cup, though specific details about the competition have yet to be confirmed.
The local players are currently on a break but are expected to return to training on January 10 for a pre-season program. Rabele also mentioned that the Fiji National Rugby League (FNRL) had expressed interest in hosting the World Series, which Canada ultimately won. Chairman Akuila Masi highlighted the financial implications of hosting, referencing the costs incurred from organizing the Pacific Championship last October.
Despite a recent narrow loss to Samoa in the World Cup qualifying match in November 2024, the Bulikula remain optimistic. The upcoming women’s Rugby League World Cup will take place alongside men’s and wheelchair tournaments in Australia and Papua New Guinea, providing a stage for the women to showcase their talent on a global platform.
Australia’s dominance in rugby league, having secured World Cup victories in 2013, 2017, and 2021, sets a high benchmark for all competing teams. However, with determination and preparation, the Bulikula are poised to make their mark in the international arena.
This drive towards qualification reflects a broader push to promote women’s rugby league in Fiji and highlights the increasing recognition of female athletes in the sport. The commitment demonstrated by the Bulikula and their coaching staff offers hope for future successes on the world stage.
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