The Vodafone Fijiana XV will depart Nadi International Airport at 9pm tomorrow as they head to the United Kingdom for the Women’s Rugby World Cup — their second appearance at rugby’s biggest stage after debuting in 2021. Camp mood is a mix of nervous energy and excitement as the squad prepares to test itself against the world’s best.
Head coach Ioan Cunningham stressed the significance of the opportunity: “We are going into a tournament that’s probably going to be the biggest female rugby competition ever, so we are super excited with that opportunity to get on the global stage and show everyone what great athletes and great rugby players we have.” The squad that travels is a 32-player group that blends talent from the Fijiana 7s, the Rooster Chicken Fijian Drua Women and several overseas-based players, with experienced leaders anchoring the group.
Fiji opens its pool campaign next Sunday at 4:30am against Canada. The Fijiana have been drawn in Pool B alongside Canada, Scotland and Wales — all higher-ranked, top-10 nations — which presents a significant challenge for the team ranked 14th. Preparations have included a productive build-up: a 34-12 scrimmage win over Manusina Samoa and recent tests such as a close 24-31 match with the USA, plus competitive outings in WXV3 and northern tours that have given valuable exposure to Six Nations-style rugby.
What to watch
– Sevens influence: Expect quick transitions, strong counter-attacks and backline pace from players with sevens pedigree.
– Set-piece and discipline: Against top-tier packs, scrum and lineout stability, territory control and tackle efficiency will be decisive.
– Leadership and cohesion: The mix of returning veterans and new blood aims to improve decision-making under pressure and sustain performance over 80 minutes.
Logical context
Fiji’s pathway deliberately fuses sevens speed with more structured 15s preparation. Facing three top-10 opponents in Pool B means Fiji must tighten fundamentals — discipline, set-piece, exit strategies — to create the clean ball needed to unleash their natural attacking flair. If they can combine structure with their trademark pace, they have genuine potential to trouble higher-ranked teams and produce upsets.
Short summary
– Vodafone Fijiana XV depart Nadi at 9pm tomorrow for the Women’s Rugby World Cup.
– Fiji will face Canada in their opening pool match next Sunday at 4:30am.
– Drawn in Pool B with Canada, Scotland and Wales — all top-10 nations; Fiji is ranked 14th.
– Preparations included a 34-12 scrimmage win over Samoa and competitive tests on tour.
– The 32-player squad blends sevens stars, Drua talent and experienced internationals.
Hopeful note
This Fijiana group combines speed, experience and a growing tactical foundation. With their preparation and the hunger that comes from a strong selection battle, they can be competitive in tight moments and inspire the next generation of Fijian girls to take up the game.
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Comment on timing accuracy
Some preview reports give varying tournament date ranges; this story focuses on departure and fixture timing provided by the team (departure: 9pm tomorrow; opening match: next Sunday 4:30am) rather than broader tournament schedule to avoid conflicting dates.
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