The Fijian Drua’s 2025 Super Rugby Pacific season did not meet expectations, as they secured only four victories and landed near the bottom of the standings. Nonetheless, this season’s challenges do not overshadow the significant strides made by Fijian rugby in recent years.
Under the coaching of Simon Raiwalui, the Drua marked a turning point for Fiji’s rugby landscape by advancing to the World Cup quarterfinals in 2022—their first since 2007—and capturing crucial wins against Tier One nations, including an unprecedented victory over England and their first success against Australia in over half a century.
Continuing on this path of progress, the squad thrived under the subsequent leadership of Mick Byrne, achieving a win at the 2024 Pacific Nations Cup and defeating Wales in Cardiff for the first time ever. Raiwalui, while reflecting on his time away from coaching, acknowledged the transformative impact Super Rugby has had on local player development in Fiji. He emphasized that the Drua has created opportunities for approximately 40 to 50 players to train and compete at a high level without leaving the country.
“This transformation has been vital for building pathways for young talent in Fiji,” Raiwalui stated, noting the importance of local opportunities for player growth. With the Drua established as a long-term project aimed at achieving continued success, Raiwalui is optimistic about the future, especially regarding upcoming World Cup competitions.
Despite the Drua’s on-field challenges, Raiwalui observed that the governance and collaboration between the Drua and the national team have improved, noting, “The rugby side has never been the hard thing for Fiji.” He emphasized that rugby holds deep cultural significance in Fiji, describing it as more of a religion than just a sport, bringing the community together in support of their team.
Anticipation is also building for Fiji’s next test match against the Wallabies in Newcastle, with passionate fans expected to turn out in large numbers. Raiwalui expressed that annual fixtures between Fiji and Australia are beneficial for promoting rugby in the region, praising the longstanding relationship between Fijian and Australian rugby organizations.
As the Fijian Drua continues to develop and the national team prepares for future challenges, there is a prevailing sense of hope and resilience within the community. The commitment to nurturing local talent reflects a path to greater achievements and a sustainable future for Fijian rugby on the world stage.
A notable point to consider is the enthusiasm surrounding the upcoming First Nations Pasifika (FNP) XV clash against the British & Irish Lions, which underscores an exciting opportunity for Fijian players and the chance to showcase their skills against top-tier teams. The evolving landscape of Fijian rugby suggests not only a bright future but also an opportunity to inspire the next generation of athletes through the sport they love.
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