HFC Bank Stadium in Suva has been confirmed to host this Saturday’s semifinals of the Vodafone Deans and Weet-Bix Raluve competitions, bringing clarity after weeks of venue uncertainty. Fiji Secondary Schools Rugby Union vice-president Biu Colati said the decision has been warmly received across the rugby community, noting that collaborative talks between the Fiji Rugby Union and the Fiji Sports Council focused on what would best serve rugby and all stakeholders.
Record crowds are expected, following packed quarterfinal days at Churchill Park in Lautoka and Prince Charles Park in Nadi last weekend.
In line with the wider operational plan for Suva, HFC Bank Stadium will stage six semifinals, with seven more matches at Buckhurst Park and three at Bidesi Ground. Thirteen semifinals from the Stadium and Buckhurst Park will be televised live on FBC Sports and FBC 2, a first that extends full broadcast coverage to Raluve fixtures as well. The finals are scheduled to return to HFC Bank Stadium on Saturday, August 23.
Why this matters: Centralizing the semifinals in Suva brings the main venues into one cluster, improving logistics, medical coverage, and broadcast quality, and making it easier for families to follow multiple games. The expanded live coverage is a meaningful step for school rugby—especially for the girls’ Raluve competition—giving young athletes greater visibility and inspiration across Fiji.
Additional comments:
– Expect detailed match schedules, ticketing information, and spectator guidelines to be issued through official channels; plan to arrive early given the anticipated turnout.
– The proximity of HFC Bank Stadium, Buckhurst, and Bidesi should create a festival atmosphere across Laucala Bay, enhancing the experience for fans and teams alike.
Summary:
– HFC Bank Stadium will host the Deans and Raluve semifinals this Saturday.
– Decision achieved through FRU–Fiji Sports Council coordination; welcomed by organizers and supporters.
– Suva cluster plan: 6 semifinals at HFC Bank Stadium, 7 at Buckhurst Park, 3 at Bidesi Ground.
– Thirteen semifinals broadcast live on FBC Sports and FBC 2, including Raluve matches.
– Finals set for HFC Bank Stadium on Saturday, August 23.
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