The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua will take on a provincial select side in Lautoka on Friday, 6 February 2026, a week before the opening round of the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific 2026 season.
The match, described as a “perfect build-up” to the Drua’s first-round clash against Moana Pasifika, is the brainchild of Head Coach Glen Jackson and is set to become an annual fixture.
“The trial match represents a strong alignment between Fiji Rugby and the Fijian Drua, creating a clear pathway for emerging provincial talent to progress to the professional level,” FRU High Performance General Manager Nacanieli Cawanibuka said. “It also provides provincial coaches with exposure to elite-level preparation and coaching environments, supporting overall rugby development in Fiji.”
Jackson said the initiative had been in the works for some time.
“It’s been a long time coming — we tried to make it happen last year. I’m glad Fiji Rugby is onboard now, and I’d like to thank Master Naca Cawanibuka for leading the charge on this,” he said. “It’s a big challenge for us, obviously Fiji versus Fiji, but it’s the perfect build-up ahead of facing Moana Pasifika.”
The Drua’s pre-season begins Monday, with all players except those currently in the Flying Fijians squad reporting for duty.
“It’s been a great year of provincial rugby in all its tiers, and we’re excited to go up against the team they’ll put together,” Jackson said. “We’re hoping the Lautoka and Western community turns up in numbers for what promises to be a great occasion.”
Further details, including ticket prices, will be announced in the coming months.
