The SportsWorld Fiji Under-20 rugby team faced a daunting start to the 2025 Super Rugby Under-20 tournament, enduring a heavy defeat against the Hurricanes, with a scoreline of 65-10. The match took place in Taupo, where the Hurricanes quickly established their control, leading 33-0 by halftime. This loss marks a continuation of a challenging trend for Fiji, as they have not managed to secure a win against the Hurricanes in their last four encounters.
Despite the score, there were moments that showcased Fiji’s potential, although they struggled to breach the Hurricanes’ robust defense—a consistent hurdle in their past meetings. This latest defeat puts additional pressure on the team as they prepare for upcoming matches in the tournament.
Head coach Senirusi Seruvakula remains optimistic about his squad’s potential, stressing the importance of teamwork and the need for adaptability. He envisions using this tournament as a stepping stone for the players’ development, particularly with an eye towards future competitions such as the Fiji Warriors tournaments. Many players are stepping up from the Vodafone Deans competition, which Seruvakula believes offers crucial experience despite the high level of competition they face.
Team captain Iliesa Erenavula, appointed for his leadership skills, aims to motivate his teammates to channel their passion for rugby as they navigate this challenging phase. The team’s journey forward is met with determination, indicating a positive mindset focused on learning and growth.
While the loss is significant, the commitment to developing young talent in Fijian rugby shines through. Fans can remain hopeful as the team aims to learn from this experience and enhance their performance in upcoming matches, setting a stage for future successes.
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