Provincial rugby in Fiji is back in full action as the Skipper Cup and Marama Cup tournaments commenced today. With 10 teams participating in each competition, players look to secure the coveted titles that come with the title.
The tournaments were officially launched at the Butt Street Hall in Suva, where Fiji Rugby Union acting chief executive Koli Sewabu expressed gratitude towards the provincial unions for their hard work and dedication in preparing for the season. He acknowledged the challenge of operating with limited resources and noted the voluntary efforts that reflect the passion within the rugby community.
Sewabu underscored the importance of the Marama Cup, which runs alongside the Skipper Cup, as a vital ground for selecting national representatives. He encouraged players, coaches, and communities to remain hopeful, highlighting that this stage is where dreams are realized and opportunities are forged.
This year’s tournaments will unfold over nine rounds, concluding with quarter-finals on October 18, followed by semi-finals on October 28 and the final match set for November 1. The participating teams for Skipper Cup include Ba, Lautoka, Macuata, Malolo, Nadi, Nadroga, Naitasiri, Suva, Tailevu, and Vatukoula, while the Marama Cup teams feature Kadavu, Lautoka, Nadi, Nadroga, Naitasiri, Namosi, Nasinu, Suva, Tailevu, and Yasawa.
Past articles have highlighted the excitement surrounding individual teams coming into this season. Naitasiri, for instance, is gearing up to defend their titles with added reinforcements from local players and those linked with the Fijian Drua, forecasted to elevate the competition level significantly.
The optimism surrounding Fiji rugby—further supported by community engagement and grassroots development—paints a promising picture for a thrilling tournament season ahead. This focus on nurturing local talent, alongside the integration of emerging players into established teams, signifies a positive trajectory for Fijian rugby, uniting communities and inspiring young athletes to pursue their dreams within the sport.
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