Wests Tigers star five-eighth Losana Lutu is one of eight NRLW players selected to represent the Fiji Bulikula in the upcoming Pacific Bowl Championship. This announcement was made by Bulikula head coach Joe Rabele over the weekend.
Rabele shared that the team scouted players in Australia and secured eight athletes for the tournament. Among them is Lutu, who has made notable strides through the Wests Tigers’ development pathways in recent years.
Born in Suva, Lutu is a product of Campbelltown Junior Rugby League and had a remarkable season in 2022. She played a key role in helping New South Wales clinch victory in the Under-19s State of Origin and won her first title with Wests Tigers in the Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership. Lutu is contracted with the club until the end of the 2026 season.
As the team prepares for their match against Cook Islands Moana on October 26 in Suva, which doubles as a qualifier for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup Women, Rabele emphasized the importance of forming the best team combination.
“We have been observing the women’s games in the local leagues,” said Rabele, who previously led the Fijian men’s team, Bati, to the semi-finals of the 2008 Rugby League World Cup. “Currently, I have several players in mind for the squad of 35, but we will need NRL’s approval for their eligibility.”
Rabele acknowledged that there is potential for growth, particularly concerning the local competition’s standards.
“This qualifier is critical for us,” he noted. Rabele understands the challenge of reaching the 2026 Women’s World Cup and is focused on making strategic decisions for the qualifiers.
“We have a strong team but are awaiting clearance from NRL. I’ve also included some talented secondary school players who compete for Lami Steelers,” he added, mentioning that about half of the 35-member squad will be composed of locally based players.
Reflecting on last year’s absence from the World Cup, Rabele expressed optimism for this year’s opportunity to cultivate their talent. “This is a good year for us as we take the time to identify our players. The team we will announce will be a strong mix,” he concluded.