Moce Secondary School triumphed over Cicia High School by 48 runs at the 2024 Fiji Secondary School National Men’s U19 Cricket Tournament held in Suva. With this victory, the team not only secured the title of secondary school cricket champions but also celebrated the selection of several players for the Fiji national team.
According to a government statement, eight players from Moce Secondary School have been chosen to compete in an upcoming cricket tournament in Japan. Meanwhile, in the third and fourth place playoff, Suva Grammar School claimed victory against Ratu Finau Secondary School, winning by five wickets and taking the third-place position.
Following their successful competition, the Moce team paid a visit to President Ratu Wiliame Katonivere at his residence. The President encouraged them to pursue contracts with international cricket franchises, commending their achievements while urging them to aim for greater accomplishments. He noted that students from rural and maritime regions come to Suva with aspirations to reach their goals.
“You have just proven that last week when you outplayed your opponents and made your school and the vanua Delaimakotu proud,” he said, highlighting the inspiration their success gives to their peers and other aspiring cricketers.
Ratu Wiliame emphasized that cricket is flourishing on the mainland and motivated the students to help promote the sport in their homeland. He explained the global profitability of cricket and stressed the players’ responsibility to chase their dreams diligently.
“You have much to contribute to cricket, and as my Tovata, your relatives have demonstrated over the years, they embraced the sport introduced by European settlers in Fiji. Strive to excel as batsmen, fielders, and wicketkeepers. I hope to see one of you secure a contract with an overseas cricket club, and I wish to hear the good news back home in Macuata when I retire.”
President Katonivere also expressed gratitude for the support from the vanua Delaimakotu, parents, teachers, and fellow students of Moce Secondary School, acknowledging their essential role in aiding the cricket team.