In an inspiring culmination of shared dreams and family support, sisters Setaita and Adi Salaseini Railumu are set to make history as they take to the rugby field together for the first time representing Fiji in the upcoming test matches for the Vodafone Fijiana XV team.
Setaita, a key member of the national squad since 2022 who also plays for the Fijiana Drua, will be joined by her younger sister, Adi Salaseini, who is making her debut on the international stage. This moment holds deep significance not only for the sisters but also for their family, realizing a cherished aspiration that has been in the making for years.
Setaita expressed her heartfelt emotions upon hearing their selection, stating, “When I heard the manager announce the names, and then my sister’s name, I started bawling my eyes out! I am so happy to be flying the Fijian flag with my sister. It’s a dream come true for our parents who have supported us since we began playing rugby.” Adi echoed her sentiment, noting their journey together in the sport, “We both played rugby together in 2019 and won the Women’s Skipper Cup for Tailevu. Now, I’m excited to join her in representing our country.”
With their first test match scheduled for September 15 against Scotland at the Hive Stadium, anticipation is building for the sisters. Following this, they will travel to the Netherlands for a historic encounter against the Orange Ladies and will then compete in the WXV3 tournament, which begins on September 27 against formidable opponents like Hong Kong China, Samoa, and Spain.
This story not only highlights the achievements of the Railumu sisters but also serves as an uplifting example of what dedication, teamwork, and familial support can achieve in the world of sports. As they step onto the international stage together, fans are hopeful that their combined efforts will inspire future generations of rugby players from Fiji.
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