The Fiji Bulikula women’s rugby league team has set its sights on qualifying for the 2025 Women’s Rugby League World Cup. Head coach Josaia Rabele aims not only to achieve World Cup qualification but also to see the team ranked among the top eight nations in the International Rugby League (IRL).
Last year, the Bulikula made impressive strides in the rankings, climbing from 26th to 16th place. This leap reflects the team’s hard work and dedication, positioning them ahead of countries like Nigeria, Kenya, and the Philippines, which Rabele considers a significant achievement.
Looking ahead, the Bulikula is set to compete against Ireland, Canada, and Nigeria in the World Series in October, a crucial qualifying event scheduled to take place in Canada. Rabele emphasized the importance of this tournament, stating, “Our major assignment this year is to win the World Series to qualify for the World Cup.” Although the specifics of the competition are yet to be finalized, the anticipation is high as local players prepare to resume training on January 10 for their pre-season program.
The Fiji National Rugby League (FNRL) had also expressed interest in hosting the World Series; however, costs associated with the recent Pacific Championship may pose a challenge.
In a previous qualifying match last November, the Bulikula faced a narrow loss to Samoa, ending with a score of 12-16 at Mt Smart Stadium in Auckland, New Zealand. The upcoming Women’s Rugby League World Cup will take place alongside men’s and wheelchair tournaments hosted by Australia, with Papua New Guinea also hosting some matches.
Australia has established itself as a powerhouse in women’s rugby league, having won the World Cup titles in 2013, 2017, and 2021, showcasing a strong legacy in the sport.
With a clear vision for the future, the Fiji Bulikula has the potential to make significant strides on the international stage, fostering hope for growth and success in women’s rugby league. The determination and resilience of the team, combined with their recent advancements, indicate that they are on the right path toward achieving their ambitious goals.
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