Mark Evans, CEO of Fijian Drua, has emphasized the critical need for the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) to promptly settle the outstanding allowances owed to players amid ongoing disputes between the FRU and its athletes. Many Drua players, who are also part of the Flying Fijians team, have not received their allowances from the FRU for the June-July test series, resulting in significant frustration regarding the financial hurdles faced by Fiji’s rugby players.
Evans stated, “Players should be paid monies owed in a timely fashion,” addressing the ongoing challenges between the FRU and the athletes. He clarified that Drua players receive their salaries bi-weekly throughout the year, regardless of their participation in the national team.
“Players contracted with the Drua are paid their salaries by us every two weeks, for 12 months of the year, regardless of their status with the national squad,” he elaborated. The payment schedule of the Drua is unaffected by any delays in the disbursement of international allowances by the FRU. As a result, concerns over player morale, injuries, and performance should not arise, as Drua players consistently receive their salaries on time, every 14 days.
While acknowledging the distressing situation surrounding the unpaid allowances, Evans reiterated that the Drua operates independently from the FRU. “We consider the situation unfortunate—certainly, players should be paid in a timely manner. However, we are not involved in the operational or financial processes of the FRU.”
He stressed that any inquiries related to the FRU’s financial issues should be directed to the FRU board and executive team, who are responsible for resolving these matters. “They have a board and an executive team that can address any concerns,” Evans added.
His statements underscored the necessity for accountability and prompt payments to safeguard the welfare and performance of players representing Fiji at the international level.