The Fijiana XV rugby team has arrived in Edinburgh and is preparing for their test match against Scotland, scheduled for Sunday morning (Fiji time) at Hive Stadium. Lock Asinate Serevi shared with SUNsports that the team is adjusting well and is aware of the challenges ahead.
“Scotland is definitely cold, but it’s been a fun experience,” she stated. “The long flight was hectic due to the time difference and weather, but it feels nice.”
The squad features five debutants, including three players from overseas and two from local clubs. The new players are Penina Turova, Mary Kanace, Iva Sauira, Una Lalabalavu, and Loraini Senivutu.
Head coach Mosese Rauluni previously noted, “It’s great to have the three international players training with us in Fiji. They’ve been in camp for a few months and are integrating well with our local players.”
Several players who debuted in the Vodafone Fijiana’s tests against Japan last month have also kept their places in the team. Those players include Salanieta Nabuli, Tiana Robanakadavu, Unaisi Lalabalavu, Salanieta Kinita, Merewairita Neivosa, and Atelaite Buna.
Following their match against Scotland, the Fijiana XV will head to the Netherlands for their first-ever match against the Orange Ladies. This highly anticipated game will occur on Thursday, September 19, at NRCA Stadium in Amsterdam. The WXV 3 tournament will also feature teams from Colombia, Ireland, Kazakhstan, Spain, and Kenya, with Fiji’s opening game against Colombia set for October 13.