The Vodafone Fijiana XV is preparing for a formidable challenge at the upcoming Women’s Rugby World Cup, scheduled to take place from August 22 to September 27, 2025, in England. The team has been placed in Pool B, where they will compete against top-ranked teams including Canada, Scotland, and Wales.
Ranked 14th in the world with 59.98 points, Fiji has made notable progress, having moved up from their previous rank of 15th. Their opponents in Pool B are formidable, with Canada positioned second (89.77 points), Scotland seventh (76.56 points), and Wales tenth (70.81 points). This stacked competition presents a significant challenge, and punching above their weight class will be one of Fiji’s key objectives as they embark on this tournament.
The Fijiana XV’s historical encounters include a match against Canada in 2022, where they were defeated 24-7, and a challenging test against Scotland in September 2024, ending in a 15-59 loss. However, their participation in recent competitions such as the WXV3 in Dubai and preparatory matches, such as a narrow 24-31 defeat to the USA Women’s Eagles, has been crucial for their development and resilience.
The team, infused with talent from the Fijiana 7s and the Rooster Chicken Fijian Drua Women’s team, has been honing their skills, focusing on improvement areas ahead of the World Cup. The blend of youth and experience within the squad, including the contributions of several 7s stars, is expected to enhance their performance.
Alana Thomas, the head of the women’s high-performance unit at Fiji Rugby Union, expressed her optimism about the tournament. She noted, “Being placed in such a competitive pool highlights the growth of women’s rugby in Fiji. We are eager to embrace this challenge and represent our nation with pride.”
As the countdown to the World Cup continues, the Fijiana XV is keen to make a strong impact, aiming not only to showcase their rugby skills but also to inspire hope and encouragement for the future of women’s rugby in the region. Their journey is a testament to resilience—illustrating that with dedication and teamwork, they are poised to leave their mark on the world stage.
Leave a comment