The Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) has defended its scheduling of the Fijiana XV’s Test match against Springbok Women.
The test match for the Ubuntu-Bula Trophy kicks off at 2pm on Saturday at HFC Bank Stadium, with school games before and after.
Under-14, under-15 and under-18 Raluve games will all be played Saturday morning before the test, with two under-18 Deans Trophy games to follow after.
FBC reported the union saying it acknowledged public discussion surrounding the schedule, but it was designed to showcase rugby from grassroots to the international level.
FRU chief executive Koli Sewabu said the Fijiana XV are not only representing Fiji this weekend, but also inspiring the next generation of young girls and boys who dream of wearing the white jersey.
“We wanted our school players to witness what international rugby looks like, and we wanted our Fijiana players to know that an entire generation is watching and drawing inspiration from them.”
Former Fijiana sevens coach Saiasi Fuli wrote on Facebook that earning a cap in a test match is the ultimate career validation for players.
“The same test value that was given to the Flying Fijians must be given to the Fijiana XV, not a curtain-raiser to schools rugby,” he wrote.
“A rugby test match represents the absolute pinnacle of international competition.”
The Fijiana have named their team for the match.
Two debutants have been named by coach Wille Walker – Ruth Raketekete at inside centre, and Adi Vani Buleki on the wing.
Kolora Lomani will captain the side from halfback, with prop Bitila Tawake named vice-captain.
The Fijiana captain said they are expecting a physical battle, and they have worked on preparing to come up against the strength in the South African side.
“We know they’re a physical team,” she said.
“We’ve worked on this week what we need to do, to be able to come up against that strong side of them.
“They come out with a fighting heart.”
Fiji last played South Africa at the women’s Rugby World Cup in 2022, where the Fijiana won 21-17.
