The Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) is considering the introduction of a new Franchise Domestic competition aimed at enhancing the development of women’s rugby in Fiji. This initiative is outlined in the FRU’s 2025 season outlook, which emphasizes preparations for the Vodafone Fijiana 15s team ahead of the upcoming Women’s Rugby World Cup, scheduled from August 22 to September 27 this year.
Set to run from April to May 2025, this new competition is designed to provide essential match experience for players not on the Fijiana Drua squad, ensuring they gain the necessary exposure and gameplay to excel on the international stage. The FRU is in the process of finalizing the competition’s details, with a confirmation expected soon.
In addition to the women’s competition, the FRU plans to hold several provincial tournaments, including the Skipper Cup, Marama Cup, Vodafone Vanua Cup, and Royal Tea Ranadi Cup, from August 2 to November 1, 2025. This scheduling strategy is intended to avoid conflicts with key events such as the Super Rugby Pacific.
The National Kaji and Kajiana Rugby competition is tentatively set for May 10-17, during the Term 1 school holidays, while the Vodafone Deans competition will take place from June 7 to August 23. The latter is crucial for selecting the Fiji U18 schoolboys’ team, which will have the opportunity to compete against the Australian and New Zealand U18 schoolboys later in the year.
These initiatives reflect the FRU’s dedication to fostering talent and supporting grassroots rugby development across Fiji, particularly in women’s rugby. By providing structured competition and pathways for young athletes, the future of Fijian rugby appears bright with promising opportunities for growth and international success.
Overall, the plans set forth by the FRU highlight a positive commitment to enhancing Fiji’s rugby landscape, ensuring athletes receive the necessary development and competition to thrive on greater platforms.
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