The Fijiana XV rugby team is settling into Edinburgh ahead of their Test match against Scotland on Sunday morning, Fiji time, at the Hive Stadium. Fijiana lock Asinate Serevi shared that the team is adapting well to their new environment and is focused on the upcoming challenge.
Serevi acknowledged the cold weather in Scotland but described the experience as enjoyable. She commented on the strenuous travel, including the long flight and time difference, but expressed that it has been a positive experience overall.
The squad features five debutants, including three international players and two from local clubs. The newcomers are Penina Turova, Mary Kanace, Iva Sauira, Una Lalabalavu, and Loraini Senivutu.
Head coach Mosese Rauluni noted that it has been beneficial to have the three international players training in Fiji for a few months, which has fostered good integration with the local players. Several Fijiana players who made their debut during last month’s tests against Japan have kept their places in the lineup, including Salanieta Nabuli, Tiana Robanakadavu, Unaisi Lalabalavu, Salanieta Kinita, Merewairita Neivosa, and Atelaite Buna.
Following their match against Scotland, the Fijiana XV will make history with their first-ever game against the Orange Ladies in the Netherlands. This match is scheduled for Thursday, September 19, at the NRCA Stadium in Amsterdam. The WXV 3 tournament will also include teams from Colombia, Ireland, Kazakhstan, Spain, and Kenya, with Fiji’s first match set against Colombia on October 13.