In preparation for the upcoming Women’s Fifteens Three (WXV3) competition in Dubai, Fijiana’s women’s rugby team is set to play two Test matches in Europe next month, marking their first experience in this format.
The matches will take place in September, where the team will face the Netherlands and Scotland. On September 15, under the guidance of coach Mosese Rauluni, they will compete against Scotland. Following that, on September 19, they will play their inaugural match in Amsterdam against the Dutch team, known as the Orange Ladies.
These Test matches are vital for Fijiana as they gear up for the WXV3 event later this year. Coach Rauluni emphasized the importance of these games, stating the team’s primary focus is on securing a victory against Scotland, a formidable opponent from the Women’s Six Nations. He noted the significance of facing such a strong team and an emerging rugby nation like the Netherlands.
Rauluni expressed his confidence that these practice matches will adequately prepare the team for the WXV3 contest. To bolster their squad, they have included several members from the Women’s High Performance Unit in their extended lineup.
Scotland, having won WXV2 in 2023 and finished fourth in the recent Six Nations, presents a significant challenge that Fijiana is excited to confront. The Netherlands is also geared up for WXV3 and is competing for a spot in the Rugby World Cup, promising a diverse playing style that is crucial for Fijiana’s preparations for the Rugby World Cup 2025.
As the WXV3 competition commences on September 27, Fijiana will compete against Samoa, Hong Kong, China, and Spain, all of which are expected to provide tough competition.