Fiji’s captain for the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France, Waisea Nayacalevu, along with senior players Levani Botia and Semi Radradra, has publicly addressed concerns regarding the Fiji Rugby Union’s management, particularly related to promised incentives since the World Cup. Nayacalevu emphasized that their motives are not financial but focus on the future of Fiji rugby. He pointed out that agreements regarding payments to players prior to the World Cup remain unfulfilled, stating that this is a long-standing issue. “It paints a bad picture and it’s time we instill more professionalism at the head of Fiji Rugby,” he expressed.
Botia echoed Nayacalevu’s sentiments, noting that many players, including himself, have not received the promised $105,000 bonus, although they did get a salary of $30,000 in two payments before and after the tournament. “I have no idea where it went,” he stated. The senior players are now urging for a thorough investigation into the ongoing issues.