Fijiana XV name youthful, hungry side for World Cup opener against Canada in York
Vodafone Fijiana XV coach Ioan Cunningham has named a youthful but determined match-day 23 for their Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 opener against world number two Canada, set for this Sunday at York Community Stadium.
Leading from the openside, captain Alfreda Fisher will helm the back row, supported by Nunia Daunimoala at blindside and Manuqalo Komaitai at number eight. Up front, Loraini Senivutu, Bitila Tawake and Tiana Robanakadavu form the starting front row, with Jade Coates and Mereoni Nakesa pairing in the second row. Setaita Railumu starts at scrumhalf, pairing with flyhalf Salanieta Kinita, while Josifini Neihamu and Ema Adivitaloga form the midfield in the centers. On the wings, Repeka Tove and Ilisapeci Delaiwau bring pace, with Litiana Vueti at fullback completing an exciting backline. The bench balances energy with experience, featuring hooker Selai Naliva, props Wainikiti Vasuturaga and Vika Matarugu, with Asinate Serevi and Karalaini Naisewa adding forward depth. In the backs, Kolora Lomani, Kelerayani Luvu and Salote Nailolo provide attacking spark if required.
This match marks Fiji’s second-ever Rugby World Cup appearance, with Canada arriving in the tournament as one of the sport’s elite teams. Cunningham has emphasised that blending youth with flair can help Fiji rise to the occasion on rugby’s biggest stage.
“It’s a great opportunity for us to test ourselves against one of the best teams in the world. And there’s no better way to do that than in a Rugby World Cup. We will give it our all and leave everything out on the field,” Cunningham said.
Fiji’s World Cup opener against Canada kicks off at 4.30am on Sunday at York Community Stadium.
What to watch for
– Sevens-to-15s transition: Fiji’s squad blends sevens speed with traditional 15s structure, aiming to move the ball quickly and exploit space on the edges.
– Set-piece and discipline: Against top packs, scrum and lineout accuracy, plus smart exit plays, will be decisive.
– Leadership and cohesion: A squad built on depth and shared leadership seeks to maintain composure for 80 minutes.
– Tactical balance: Fiji aims to combine its natural attacking instincts with a more structured kicking game and improved defense to manage tempo and territory.
Context and outlook
Fiji’s preparation has focused on maintaining Fiji’s characteristic pace while tightening core aspects like discipline, set pieces, and field position. With three top-10 opponents in Pool B, the team will need clean ball and sustained pressure to unlock attacking potential. If Fiji can couple speed with improved structure, there is genuine potential to trouble higher-ranked teams and inspire young players back home.
Publication notes and value-added suggestions
– Suggested headline: Fijiana XV name youthful, hungry side for World Cup opener against Canada in York
– Suggested image caption: Fiji players in pre-match preparation ahead of the Canada showdown in York
– Suggested tags: Fiji Rugby, Fijiana, Women’s Rugby World Cup, Ioan Cunningham, Alfreda Fisher Maria, Rugby Prep
– Social caption idea: The Fijiana are heading to York for their World Cup opener against Canada. Kickoff is 4.30am on Sunday. #Fijiana #RWC2025
Additional comments
– The selection continues a trend of integrating emerging talent with experienced leaders, signaling a long-term approach to build depth for both the World Cup and future Rugby Nations events.
– If Fiji can execute their plan and maintain pressure, they could deliver a memorable performance that elevates women’s rugby in Fiji and the wider Pacific region. While Canada will be a stern test, the blend of pace, purpose, and belief offers a hopeful narrative for the tournament.
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