The search for a new head coach for the Vodafone Fijiana XV and Rooster Chicken Fijian Drua women’s rugby teams is currently underway, as confirmed by Mark Evans, the chief executive officer of Fijian Drua. This follows the resignation of head coach Mosese Rauluni after the Fijiana XV’s disappointing performance at the WXV3 tournament in Dubai, where the team suffered defeats against Samoa and Spain.
Evans noted that this coaching position is jointly funded, meaning that Rauluni’s resignation from the national team also entails his departure from the Drua role. The organization is collaborating with the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) to identify a suitable replacement. In a prior statement, former Fijiana XV head coach Senirusi Seruvakula expressed disinterest in taking the position, while Inoke Male has yet to make a decision.
There is speculation that Rauluni’s assistant coach, Kele Leawere, may be a strong candidate for the role, given his familiarity with the players.
In other news, the Fijiana XVs have been placed in a challenging pool for the upcoming Women’s Rugby World Cup in England. They will compete in Pool B alongside Canada, Scotland, and Wales. The Fijiana XVs faced a heavy defeat of 59-15 against Scotland in a recent Test match held at the Hive Stadium in Edinburgh.
The reigning champions, New Zealand, are set to compete in Pool C where they will face Ireland, Japan, and South Africa. The host nation, England, will compete in Pool A along with Australia, the USA, and Samoa. The tournament is scheduled to take place from August 22 to September 27.
The pools for the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 are as follows:
– Pool A: England, Australia, USA, Samoa
– Pool B: Canada, Scotland, Wales, Fiji
– Pool C: New Zealand, Ireland, Japan, Spain
– Pool D: France, Italy, South Africa, Brazil