The Rooster Chicken Fijiana Drua women’s rugby team is gearing up to debut six players in their opening match against the Super Rugby Women’s champions, the Waratahs, this Friday. Among the debutants, Alfreda Fisher is set to take the back row, while former Fijiana 7s star Alowesi Nakoci will start on the wing. Josivini Naihamu, a powerful runner, has been assigned to partner with the returning Vitalina Naikore in the centers after her stint in the NRL.
Vika Matarugu will lead the team as captain from the front row, with Bitila Tawake co-captaining from the reserves. This match is scheduled for 6:05 PM at Allianz Stadium in Sydney and presents a significant challenge for the Drua as they look to establish their performance early in the season.
This first match comes in the wake of a recent pre-season trial where the Drua faced the Brumbies, which ended in a loss of 33-52, but coach Ifereimi Rawaqa remains optimistic about the team’s prospects. He praised the players’ resilience and effort throughout the trial match, suggesting they have learned valuable lessons that will contribute to their strategy against the Waratahs.
Fans can anticipate an exciting display of talent, as this matchup not only highlights the new players but also reflects the team’s commitment to integrate emerging talent with experienced players. The Drua’s rich history, having secured the Super W title in 2022 and 2023, adds motivation for the team to reclaim their status this season.
With a focus on growth and unity, there is a hopeful outlook for the Fijiana Drua as they embark on their Super Rugby campaign, aiming to leave a lasting impact in women’s rugby.
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