Fiji Bulikula is setting its sights on qualifying for the Women’s Rugby League World Cup in 2025. The national women’s rugby league team aims to break into the top eight rankings globally, a goal articulated by head coach Josaia Rabele.
Last year, the Bulikula made an impressive leap from 26th to 16th in the International Rugby League (IRL) standings, which was a notable achievement. Rabele expressed pride that Fijian women now rank above teams from countries like Nigeria, Kenya, and the Philippines.
The team is gearing up to compete in the World Series in October in Canada, where they will face strong competitors, including Ireland, Canada, and Nigeria. Rabele emphasized that winning the World Series is critical for their World Cup qualification.
While local players are on break until training resumes on January 10 for a pre-season program, Rabele shared that the Fiji National Rugby League (FNRL) also expressed interest in hosting the World Series. However, Chairman Akuila Masi pointed out the financial challenges this might pose, especially following the cost incurred from last October’s Pacific Championship.
In recent history, the Bulikula faced a setback when they narrowly lost to Samoa, 12-16, in the World Cup qualifying match at Mt Smart Stadium in Auckland, New Zealand, on November 2, 2024. Looking ahead, the next Women’s Rugby League World Cup will be held alongside the men’s and wheelchair tournaments in Australia, with Papua New Guinea also hosting some matches.
Australia continues to be a dominant force in rugby league, with its national team achieving World Cup victories in 2013, 2017, and 2021, further solidifying their top status.
This venture reflects not only the growth of women’s rugby in Fiji but also the resilient spirit of the team as they aspire to challenge top-tier nations on a global stage. With a clear goal and several upcoming matches, the Bulikula has a hopeful pathway towards their ambition.
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