Wests Tigers’ talented five-eighth, Losana Lutu, has been named among eight players representing the 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 have selected eight for the team. Notably, Losana Lutu, who plays as a halfback for the Wests Tigers, is included.”
Lutu, who hails from Suva and is a product of the Campbelltown Junior program, has quickly progressed through the ranks of the Wests Tigers in recent years. Known for her impressive running game as a five-eighth, Lutu had a standout season in 2022, contributing to New South Wales’ Under-19s State of Origin victory and clinching a title with the Wests Tigers in the Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership. She is contracted with the club until the end of the 2026 season.
The match against the Cook Islands Moana on October 26 in Suva is crucial, serving as a qualifier for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup Women. Rabele is focused on assembling the best possible team for this important event.
“We have been monitoring the women’s games in the local league,” he noted. Rabele, who led the Fiji Bati to the semi-finals of the 2008 RLWC, mentioned that while they have a roster of potential players, they must first secure eligibility approvals from the National Rugby League (NRL).
Rabele acknowledged the need for improvement in the local competition, emphasizing the significance of the upcoming qualifier. “Reaching the 2026 Women’s Rugby League World Cup is our goal, and we need to strategize carefully for the qualifiers,” he stated.
He expressed confidence in the team’s potential, mentioning that they are awaiting clearance from the NRL, and he has included several secondary school players from the Lami Steelers in the squad.
Rabele plans to ensure that at least half of the 35-member squad consists of locally-based players. Reflecting on last year’s absence from the World Cup, he remarked, “This year gives us the opportunity to identify our players. The team we are assembling will be a strong mix of talent.”