Notable Wests Tigers five-eighth Losana Lutu is one of eight players selected to represent Fiji Bulikula in the upcoming Pacific Bowl Championship. This announcement was made by Bulikula’s head coach Joe Rabele over the weekend.
Rabele shared, “We went to Australia to scout players and selected eight who will be traveling with us.” He emphasized that among the talented athletes is Losana Lutu, who plays for the Wests Tigers.
Lutu, hailing from Suva, has quickly risen through the ranks of the Wests Tigers junior pathways. Known for her impressive running game as a five-eighth, she had a standout season in 2022, contributing to New South Wales’ success in the Under-19s State of Origin and securing a title with Wests Tigers in the Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership, where she is contracted until the end of the 2026 season.
With a crucial match against Cook Islands Moana scheduled for October 26 in Suva, which also serves as a qualifier for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup Women, Rabele expressed his commitment to assembling the strongest team possible.
“We’ve been observing women’s games in the local competition,” Rabele, who guided the Bati to the semi-finals of the 2008 RLWC, stated. He mentioned that there are several young players who might join the squad of 35, pending approval from the National Rugby League regarding eligibility.
Rabele pointed out that there is significant potential for growth in the local competition’s standards. “The qualifier is crucial for us,” he noted, acknowledging the importance of strategic planning to secure a spot in the 2026 Women’s Rugby League World Cup.
He added, “We have a talented team, but we’re waiting for the NRL’s clearance. Several secondary school athletes from Lami Steelers will be part of this qualifier.” Rabele indicated that at least half of the final 35-member squad will consist of local players.
Reflecting on the past year, he remarked that the absence of Fiji Bulikula in the World Cup was a setback. However, he sees this year’s opportunity as a chance to better identify and cultivate talent within the team, promising a diverse mix of players in the squad.