The Fijiana XV rugby team is settling in well in Edinburgh ahead of their upcoming Test match against Scotland on Sunday morning (Fiji time) at the Hive Stadium. Lock Asinate Serevi shared with SUNsports that the team is adapting well to the conditions and is focused on the challenge ahead.
“Scotland is certainly cold but it’s been a fun experience,” Serevi remarked. She noted that the long flight was difficult due to the time differences and weather changes, but overall, it has been a positive experience.
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 commented in a previous interview that having the three international players training in Fiji has been beneficial. “They have been in camp for a few months and are integrating well with the local players,” he said.
Several local players who debuted in the Vodafone Fijiana’s tests against Japan last month have retained their positions in the squad. These include Salanieta Nabuli, Tiana Robanakadavu, Unaisi Lalabalavu, Salanieta Kinita, Merewairita Neivosa, and Atelaite Buna.
Looking ahead, the Fijiana XV will embark on a historic journey as they travel to the Netherlands for their first-ever match against the Orange Ladies. This eagerly awaited fixture is set for Thursday, September 19, at the NRCA Stadium in Amsterdam. The WXV 3 tournament will feature teams including Colombia, Ireland, Kazakhstan, Spain, and Kenya. Fiji’s opening match will be against Colombia on October 13.