The 2025 Ba Rugby Union Vinod Patel Cup is heating up as the defending champions Natalecake were eliminated in a close quarter-final match against Ba River, finishing with a score of 20-23 last Saturday at the Vinod Patel Ground. This unexpected turn of events opens the door for a new champion to be crowned next week, with semi-finals scheduled for this Saturday promising thrilling encounters.
The Ba River team, coming off their victory over Natalecake, will meet the well-established Nailaga side in the first semi-final at 2:30 PM. Nailaga secured their spot with a narrow 29-27 win against Balevuto in the quarter-finals. Meanwhile, the second semi-final will showcase high-flying Toge, who defeated Navala convincingly 32-13, going up against Tabalei, who eked out a defensive battle victory over Sasa, 8-5. This match is slated to be the main event of the day, kicking off at 4 PM.
In addition to the excitement surrounding the Vinod Patel Cup, the INOX Trophy competition has also captured the community’s attention with FSC, Services Ba, Bukuya, and Nanoko all advancing to the semi-finals following an intense set of quarter-final matches. FSC demonstrated their fitness and composure, overcoming Natutu with a score of 22-13, while Services Ba edged Vatutavui 9-7 in a closely fought penalties-decided match. Bukuya and Nanoko also progressed with victories, pushing the semi-finals of the INOX Trophy forward.
Fans are in for an exciting day of grassroots rugby as the best village teams compete for a coveted spot in the finals. The heightened competition and engagement in the sport indicate a vibrant future for rugby in the Ba region, with many emerging talents eager to make their mark in these thrilling encounters.
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