The Vodafone Fijian XV is motivated to achieve a significant victory against Spain in their final match of the WXV 3 tournament in Dubai, marking the last game under head coach Mosese Rauluni. Rauluni announced his resignation following the Fijiana XV’s recent 45-17 loss to Samoa.
This year, Rauluni guided the Fijian Drua to their third consecutive Super W Grand Final and led the Fijiana XV to victory in the Oceania Championship, securing a spot in next year’s Rugby World Cup. He achieved notable milestones, including the Fijiana’s first victory over Japan. During his tenure, he has been instrumental in the program’s development through centralization in Nadi, fostering a positive environment for players and staff. Noteworthy players such as Atelaite Buna, Salanieta Kinita, and Repeka Tove have emerged under his guidance.
According to the Fiji Rugby Union, this match will be Rauluni’s final assignment before relocating to Brisbane, Australia, to be with his family. Fiji Rugby Union’s CEO, Rovereto Nayacalevu, expressed good wishes for Rauluni’s future and confirmed that the search for a new head coach for the Fijiana XV and Rooster Chicken Fijiana Drua teams will commence soon.
The match between Fiji and Spain is set to kick off at 4:30 AM and will be broadcast live on Sky Pacific.
The Fijiana XV lineup for the match is as follows:
1. Salanieta Nabuli, 2. Keleni Marawa, 3. Tiana Robanakadavu, 4. Aviame Veidreyaki, 5. Alfreda Fisher, 6. Salaseini Ralumu, 7. Ema Adivitaloga, 8. Karalaini Naisewa (captain), 9. Evivi Senikaravi, 10. Salanieta Kinita, 11. Repeka Tove, 12. Jennifer Ravutia, 13. Adita Milinia, 14. Kolora Lomani, 15. Luisa Tisolo.
Reserves include: 16. Loraini Senivutu, 17. Penina Turova, 18. Anasimeci Korovata, 19. Asinate Serevi, 20. Mereoni Nakesa, 21. Sulita Waisega, 22. Setaita Railumu, 23. Ivamere Nabura.