The search for a new head coach for the Vodafone Fijiana XV and Rooster Chicken Fijian Drua women’s rugby teams has officially begun, as confirmed by Mark Evans, the CEO of Fijian Drua. This follows the resignation of head coach Mosese Rauluni after the Fijiana XV’s disappointing performance at the WXV3 tournament in Dubai, where they faced defeats against Samoa and Spain.
Evans noted that since the coaching position is jointly funded, the resignation from the national team also applies to the Drua role. The organization is collaborating with the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) to identify a suitable replacement. In previous discussions, former Fijiana XV head coach Senirusi Seruvakula expressed no interest in the position, while Inoke Male has yet to make a decision.
Kele Leawere, who has served as Rauluni’s assistant coach and has been familiar with the team, may also be a candidate for the head coach role.
In related news, the Fijiana XVs are set to compete in a challenging group for the upcoming Women’s Rugby World Cup in England next year. They have been placed in Pool B, along with Canada, Scotland, and Wales. The Fijiana XVs faced a significant defeat against Scotland last month, losing 59-15 at the Hive Stadium in Edinburgh.
The reigning champions, New Zealand, are positioned in Pool C with Ireland, Japan, and South Africa, while hosts England will compete in Pool A with Australia, the USA, and Samoa. The Women’s Rugby World Cup is scheduled to take place from August 22 to September 27, 2025.
The pools for the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 are as follows:
Pool A: England, Australia, USA, Samoa
Pool B: Canada, Scotland, Wales, Fiji
Pool C: New Zealand, Ireland, Japan, Spain
Pool D: France, Italy, South Africa, Brazil.