Fiji’s Women’s Rugby League Eyes World Cup Glory in 2025

Fiji Bulikula has set an ambitious target to qualify for the 2025 Women’s Rugby League World Cup, with hopes of securing a spot among the top eight teams globally. This goal is spearheaded by head coach Josaia Rabele, who expressed pride in the team’s rise in the International Rugby League (IRL) rankings, moving from 26th to 16th last year. Rabele noted that it is encouraging to see the Fijian women outranking nations such as Nigeria, Kenya, and the Philippines.

In preparation for the qualifying event, the Bulikula will compete against Ireland, Canada, and Nigeria during the World Series taking place in Canada this October. Rabele emphasized the importance of winning this series as a stepping stone to World Cup qualification. While specific competition details are still pending, local players are currently on a break and are set to resume training on January 10 for their pre-season program.

Additionally, the Fiji National Rugby League (FNRL) expressed interest in hosting the World Series, although this would come with significant costs, especially following their recent hosting of the Pacific Championship last October. The team faced a setback recently, losing to Samoa, 12-16, in a World Cup qualifying match in Auckland.

The women’s Rugby League World Cup next year will coincide with the men’s and wheelchair tournaments, which will be hosted in Australia, with some matches also taking place in Papua New Guinea. Australia has maintained strong dominance in women’s Rugby League, having won the World Cup in 2013, 2017, and 2021.

This momentum for Fiji Bulikula serves not only as a source of pride but also illustrates the growing competitiveness and visibility of women’s rugby in the Pacific region. The team’s trajectory points to positive growth, fostering greater opportunities and inspiring future generations of female athletes in Fiji.

In summary, with focused training and competition, Fiji Bulikula aims to establish itself on the world stage, offering both hope and excitement for fans of women’s rugby in the region and beyond.