Wests Tigers five-eighth Losana Lutu has been selected as one of eight NRLW 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.
“We traveled to Australia to identify players and selected eight for our team,” Rabele stated. “Among them is the talented halfback Losana Lutu, who plays for the Wests Tigers.”
Lutu, originally from Suva and a product of Campbelltown Juniors, has quickly risen through the ranks of the Wests Tigers pathways. The skilled five-eighth, known for her powerful running abilities, had a standout season in 2022, contributing to New South Wales’ victory in the Under-19s State of Origin and securing a title with Wests Tigers in the Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership. She is contracted with the club until the conclusion of the 2026 season.
Rabele expressed the importance of forming the best team for the upcoming match against Cook Islands Moana on October 26 in Suva, which serves as a qualifier for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup for Women. “We have been monitoring the women’s games in the local leagues,” Rabele, who previously led the Bati to the semi-finals of the 2008 RLWC, remarked.
Currently, he has a group of players in mind for the preliminary squad of 35, pending approval from the NRL regarding their eligibility. He emphasized the necessity of enhancing the local competition’s quality as they prepare for this crucial game.
“The qualifier is a very important match for us,” Rabele said. He acknowledged the challenge of securing a place in the 2026 Women’s Rugby League World Cup and emphasized the need to make strategic decisions during the qualifiers.
“We have a strong team, but we are awaiting clearance from the NRL. I’ve also included several secondary school players from the Lami Steelers in this qualifier,” he mentioned, highlighting that about half of the final squad will consist of local talent.
Reflecting on the previous year, Rabele noted that the absence of the Fiji Bulikula in the World Cup was a setback. “This year provides us with an opportunity to properly assess our players. The upcoming team will feature a balanced mix of talent,” he added.