Fiji Bulikula captain Talei Holmes has expressed that the team has built a strong bond in their brief time together. She highlighted the importance of their off-field activities, including devotions and team meetings.
Holmes noted the strengths of the Cook Islands team, pointing out that their players possess considerable power in the midfield, along with Kiana Takairangi at full-back, who she believes could pose a threat during the ruck plays.
To succeed, Holmes emphasized the need to improve their ruck performance and tighten their defense. She shared her excitement about being captain this year, calling it a special moment, especially since she didn’t expect it to happen so soon. Holmes is eager to lead her teammates into the competition.
The captain also expressed her enthusiasm for participating in the Pacific Championship, which marks her first visit to the region. She finds it incredibly meaningful to witness the emergence of younger talent in rugby and is thrilled to have the opportunity to play in front of them. Holmes mentioned that the team is serious about their goal of qualifying for the 2026 Women’s Rugby League World Cup, stating that such an achievement would be significant for their country.
“Ensuring we cover all areas in preparation for our match on Saturday is our priority,” she said. Holmes recently played for the Cronulla Sharks, who narrowly lost 32-28 to the Sydney Roosters in the NRLW grand final two weeks ago.
In related news, Fetu Samoa will be observing the Fiji Bulikula and Cook Islands Moana match this Saturday, which serves as the other qualifier for the World Cup after their recent victory over Tonga, winning 30-16. The winner of the Fiji-Cook Islands matchup will advance to Auckland to face Samoa at Go Media Stadium on November 2, with a World Cup spot at stake. Tonga and the losing team from Saturday’s game at HFC Stadium will be eliminated from contention, while the runner-up in Auckland will have an opportunity to compete in the 2025 World Series to determine the final berth for the RLWC2026.
Additionally, the team that claims victory in Auckland will also compete against the third-placed team from the Pacific Cup at CommBank Stadium on November 10, with the chance to gain promotion to the top tier next year.