Wests Tigers five-eighth Losana Lutu is among 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 mentioned that the team scouted players in Australia, resulting in the selection of these eight athletes. Among them is Lutu, who has been making a name for herself as a talented halfback with the Wests Tigers.
Originally from Suva, Lutu has advanced rapidly through the Wests Tigers’ ranks. She is noted for her impressive running ability and had a standout 2022 season, contributing to New South Wales’ Under-19s State of Origin success and securing a title with the Wests Tigers in the Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership. Lutu is contracted with the Tigers until the end of the 2026 season.
Looking ahead, Rabele aims to assemble the strongest team possible for the match against Cook Islands Moana on October 26 in Suva, which serves as a qualifier for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup Women. He emphasized the importance of this match and the need to monitor the local competition to identify potential players.
Rabele has plans to include several secondary school girls who are currently with Lami Steelers in the squad, adding that half of the 35-member team will comprise local players. He expressed disappointment that Fiji Bulikula was not included in the World Cup last year but noted that this year provides a valuable opportunity to cultivate local talent and create a well-rounded team.