Fiji Bulikula is setting its sights on qualifying for the Women’s Rugby League World Cup in 2025, with aspirations to secure a position within the top eight teams globally. This ambitious goal has been articulated by head coach Josaia Rabele, who is looking to build on the team’s impressive rise from 26th to 16th in the International Rugby League (IRL) rankings over the past year.
Rabele expressed pride at seeing Fijian women ranked higher than teams from countries such as Nigeria, Kenya, and the Philippines. The Bulikula’s path to qualification will include competing against Ireland, Canada, and Nigeria during the World Series in October, which will serve as the qualifying event taking place in Canada. Rabele emphasized the importance of this tournament, stating, “Our major assignment this year is to win the World Series to qualify for the World Cup.”
He noted that while the teams have been confirmed, specific competition details are still pending. The local squad is currently on a break, with preparations slated to resume on January 10 for their pre-season training program. Additionally, Rabele mentioned that the Fiji National Rugby League (FNRL) expressed interest in hosting the World Series, although this has been complicated by logistics and costs following their hosting of the Pacific Championship last October.
In recent history, the Bulikula faced a setback, losing to Samoa 12-16 in a World Cup qualifying match held in Auckland on November 2, 2024. The upcoming Women’s Rugby League World Cup is scheduled to occur alongside the men’s and wheelchair events in Australia, with Papua New Guinea also slated to host some matches.
Australia has maintained a dominant position in women’s rugby league, claiming World Cup victories in 2013, 2017, and 2021, thereby solidifying their reputation as the preeminent team in the sport.
This article underscores the growth and competitive spirit of Fiji’s women’s rugby league team, reflecting a positive trajectory and a commitment to achieving international recognition. The engagement in high-stakes competitions like the World Series and the World Cup showcases the potential of Fijian female athletes to shine on a global stage, serving as an inspiration for the next generation of rugby players in the region.
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