The Fijiana XV rugby team is currently adjusting to their surroundings in Edinburgh ahead of their upcoming Test match against Scotland, which is scheduled for Sunday morning (Fiji time) at Hive Stadium. Asinate Serevi, a lock for the Fijiana, shared with SUNsports that the team is adapting well and is focused on the challenge ahead.
Serevi noted, “Scotland is definitely cold, but it’s been a fun experience.” She added that the long flight, along with the time difference and weather changes, was quite demanding, yet she expressed satisfaction with the experience so far.
The squad features five debutants: Penina Turova, Mary Kanace, Iva Sauira, Una Lalabalavu, and Loraini Senivutu. Three of these newcomers are from overseas while the other two are local players.
Head coach Mosese Rauluni commented in a previous interview, “It’s great to have 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 the Vodafone Fijiana’s tests against Japan last month have retained their places on the team. These players include Salanieta Nabuli, Tiana Robanakadavu, Unaisi Lalabalavu, Salanieta Kinita, Merewairita Neivosa, and Atelaite Buna.
The Fijiana XV is also set for another historic encounter as they prepare to face the Netherlands for the first time, competing against the Orange Ladies on Thursday, September 19, at the NRCA Stadium in Amsterdam. This match is part of the WXV 3 tournament, which will include teams from Colombia, Ireland, Kazakhstan, Spain, and Kenya. Fiji’s tournament opener will be against Colombia on October 13.