Wests Tigers five-eighth Losana Lutu has been selected as one of eight NRLW players to represent Fiji Bulikula in the upcoming Pacific Bowl Championship. The announcement was made by Bulikula head coach Joe Rabele over the weekend.
Rabele stated, “We went to Australia to scout players and we’ve selected eight players.” He highlighted Lutu’s talent as a prominent halfback in the team.
Originally from Suva, Lutu has quickly risen through the Wests Tigers ranks. She showcased her skills as a five-eighth with a powerful running game during a standout season in 2022, contributing to New South Wales’ triumph in the Under-19s State of Origin and securing her first title with Wests Tigers in the Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership. Lutu is contracted with the club until the conclusion of the 2026 season.
As the team prepares to face Cook Islands Moana on October 26 in Suva, which also serves as a qualifier for the 2026 Women’s Rugby League World Cup, Rabele emphasized the importance of assembling the best player combination.
“We’ve been monitoring women’s games in the local competition,” said Rabele, who previously coached the Bati to the semi-finals of the 2008 Rugby League World Cup. “Currently, I have several players in mind for a squad of 35, pending NRL’s approval for their eligibility.”
Rabele noted the need for improvement, particularly in the local competition’s standards. He emphasized the significance of the qualifying match, stating, “The qualifier is a very important game for us.”
He acknowledges the challenge of making it to the 2026 Women’s Rugby League World Cup and believes strategic decisions are crucial for the qualifiers. “We have a good side, but we are waiting for clearance from NRL. I’ve included a number of secondary school players from Lami Steelers in this qualifier,” he explained.
Rabele confirmed that half of the 35-player squad will consist of locally based athletes. He reflected on last year’s setback, where Fiji Bulikula was not included in the World Cup, stating, “This year provides us with valuable time to identify our players. The team we will name will be a strong mix of talent.”