Fiji Bulikula captain Talei Holmes has expressed that the team has already formed a strong bond in their limited time together. She emphasized the significance of their off-field connections, which they built through team devotions and meetings.
Holmes noted the strengths of the Cook Islands team, particularly highlighting Kiana Takairangi at full-back, whom she described as being a potential threat around the ruck. To counter this, Holmes mentioned the need for her team to improve their ruck play and maintain solid defense.
Having represented Fiji twice in the past, Holmes remarked that being named captain is a special and unexpected opportunity for her. She conveyed her excitement about leading the team and being part of the Pacific Championship in her first visit to the country.
Holmes expressed her enthusiasm for witnessing the younger generation rising in the sport and emphasized the importance of qualifying for the 2026 Women’s Rugby League World Cup. She stated that achieving this milestone would mean a great deal to the nation and assured that the team is thoroughly preparing for their upcoming match.
Recently, Holmes participated with the Cronulla Sharks, who faced a loss to the Sydney Roosters in the NRLW grand final.
In related news, Fetu Samoa will observe the upcoming match between Bulikula and the Cook Islands Moana, as the winner will vie for a place in the World Cup qualifying final after Fetu Samoa’s recent victory over Tonga. The winner of the Fiji-Cook Islands match will proceed to face Samoa in Auckland for a shot at World Cup qualification, while Tonga and the losing team will be eliminated from contention. The runner-up in Auckland will have another chance to qualify for the World Series in 2025, which will determine the final berth in the 2026 World Cup. Additionally, the Auckland winner will compete against the third-placed Pacific Cup team for a chance at promotion next year.