The appointment process for a head coach for both the Vodafone Fijiana XV and the Rooster Chicken Fijian Drua women’s rugby teams is currently underway. This confirmation came from Mark Evans, the chief executive officer of the Fijian Drua.
This development follows the resignation of head coach Mosese Rauluni, which occurred after the Fijiana XV’s disappointing performance in the WXV3 tournament held in Dubai, where they suffered losses against Samoa and Spain. Evans explained that since this is a jointly funded position, the resignation from the national team also means a resignation from the Drua role.
Efforts are being made in collaboration with the Fiji Rugby Union to identify a suitable replacement. In previous discussions, former Fijiana XV head coach Senirusi Seruvakula indicated he is not interested in returning to the role, while Inoke Male is still contemplating his decision. It is expected that Kele Leawere, Rauluni’s assistant coach, may be considered for the position, as he has experience working with the current players.
In other news, the Fijiana XVs have been placed in a challenging pool for the upcoming Women’s Rugby World Cup scheduled for next year in England. They are positioned in Pool B, where they will compete against Canada, Scotland, and Wales. Recently, the Fijiana XVs faced Scotland in a Test match at the Hive Stadium in Edinburgh, suffering a heavy defeat with a score of 59-15.
In the World Cup, reigning champions New Zealand will be competing in Pool C against Ireland, Japan, and South Africa. Host nation England will lead Pool A, which includes Australia, the USA, and Samoa. The Women’s Rugby World Cup is set to take place from August 22 to September 27.
The pools for the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 are as follows:
Pool A: England, Australia, USA, Samoa
Pool B: Canada, Scotland, Wales, Fiji
Pool C: New Zealand, Ireland, Japan, Spain
Pool D: France, Italy, South Africa, Brazil.