The Fijiana XVs team is settling in Edinburgh ahead of their Test match against Scotland scheduled for Sunday morning (Fiji time) at the Hive Stadium. Fijiana lock Asinate Serevi shared with SUNsports that the team is adapting well and is focused on the upcoming challenge.
Serevi remarked on the chilly Scottish weather, stating, “Scotland is definitely cold, but it’s been a fun experience.” She also noted the challenges of the long flight, including time differences and weather adjustments.
The team features five debutants, three of whom are international players and two from local clubs. The debuting players are Penina Turova, Mary Kanace, Iva Sauira, Una Lalabalavu, and Loraini Senivutu.
Head coach Mosese Rauluni previously expressed his satisfaction with the integration of the international players into the team, saying, “It’s good to have the three international players training with us in Fiji. They have been in camp for a few months and are integrating well with the local players.”
Several local players who debuted in last month’s tests against Japan have kept their spots in the squad, including Salanieta Nabuli, Tiana Robanakadavu, Unaisi Lalabalavu, Salanieta Kinita, Merewairita Neivosa, and Atelaite Buna.
The Fijiana XV will also be making history with their upcoming match against the Netherlands, their first encounter with the Orange Ladies. This match is set for Thursday, September 19, at the NRCA Stadium in Amsterdam. The WXV 3 tournament will feature teams including the Fijiana XV, Colombia, Ireland, Kazakhstan, Spain, and Kenya, with Fiji’s first tournament match against Colombia on October 13.