The Fiji Airways men’s and women’s rugby sevens teams have successfully qualified for the HSBC SVNS World Championship, taking place in Los Angeles on May 3-4. Following the elimination series held in Singapore, Argentina emerged as the title winner for the men’s category, while New Zealand claimed the women’s title.
The World Championship will feature the top eight men’s and women’s teams, and those who did not qualify will compete in the HSBC Sevens Challenger, aiming to secure a spot in the 2025/26 HSBC SVNS. At the Singapore Sevens, the Fiji men’s team showcased their prowess by lifting the tournament trophy, defeating Kenya 21-12 in the Cup final. After trailing at halftime due to a converted try from Kenya’s Nygel Pettersam Amatisa, the Fiji team rallied with three impressive tries in the second half, two from Viwa Naduvalo and another from Rauto Vakadranu, which were all converted.
In a notable performance, Fiji forward Tira Wilagi Patterson acknowledged the challenge posed by the physical Kenyan team, while Naduvalo was honored as Player of the Final for the second time. Meanwhile, the Fiji women’s team finished strong, overcoming Great Britain with a 43-14 victory to secure a seventh-place finish.
Vika Nakacia led the way for the women by scoring a hat-trick, alongside efforts from Adita Milinia, Kereleyani Lutu, Ilisapeci Delaiwau, and Mitchell Seruvatu, who each contributed a try.
Both teams have shown resilience and determination, setting a hopeful tone as they prepare for the upcoming World Championship and continued international competition. Their performances reflect the ongoing development of Fijian rugby, offering inspiration for the future of the sport.
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