Fiji’s women’s rugby league team, the Bulikula, has set an ambitious goal to qualify for the 2025 Women’s Rugby League World Cup and aim for a spot in the top eight rankings. The head coach, Josaia Rabele, is optimistic about this target, especially following a noteworthy jump in the International Rugby League (IRL) rankings, where the team moved from 26th to 16th place last year.
Rabele expressed pride in seeing the Fijian women ranked higher than other countries such as Nigeria, Kenya, and the Philippines. The Bulikula will be competing in the World Series in October against Ireland, Canada, and Nigeria, which will serve as the qualifying event for the World Cup to be held in Canada. Rabele emphasized the importance of winning this series to secure their place in the World Cup.
While local players currently enjoy a break, they are set to resume training on January 10, marking the start of their pre-season program. Fiji National Rugby League (FNRL) has also shown interest in hosting the World Series, which Canada won last year. However, the chairman, Akuila Masi, noted the financial challenges, having recently hosted the Pacific Championship.
Moreover, the Bulikula faced a tough match against Samoa, losing 12-16 in a World Cup qualifying match held at Mt Smart Stadium in Auckland, New Zealand, on November 2, 2024. The next women’s Rugby League World Cup will coincide with the men’s and wheelchair tournaments, all hosted by Australia, with Papua New Guinea also hosting some matches. Australia has established itself as a dominant force in rugby league, with World Cup victories in 2013, 2017, and 2021.
This ambitious journey reflects the growing strength and recognition of women’s rugby league, and with dedicated training and strategic plans, the Bulikula’s aspirations highlight the potential for significant achievements in the sport. The focus on grassroots involvement and local player development, as well as increased international exposure, could pave the way for success on the world stage.
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