Discussions on Fijiana Drua’s return to the Super W competition, after a successful outing in their first year, are ongoing with relevant stakeholders who will meet again later this month.
In a statement, FRU Chief Executive John O’Connor said talks with Rugby Australia and the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs regarding the Fijiana Drua’s return progressing well and all stakeholders “are moving ahead to confirm final details to ensure the Fijiana Drua return to defend their Super W title in 2023 and beyond.”
“The Fiji Rugby Union has already had productive meetings with Rugby Australia and its Chairman Hamish McLennan in this regard. Another meeting is scheduled for late June to finalise all pending requirements,” O’Connor said.
“Fiji Rugby remains grateful for the continued support and assistance of Australia’s Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade through its Pacific Aus Sports programme, which makes Fijiana Drua’s Super W participation possible.
“The three stakeholders remain committed to the Fijiana Drua and are buoyed by the platform the team has set for the continued growth and development of women in sport in Fiji. It provides a clear pathway for girls and women to progress from Fiji Rugby’s domestic competitions to the Super W and onto national Fijiana honours.”
In their first year of participation as part of the build-up to the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand later this year, the Fijiana Drua were invited to the Super W – Rugby Australia’s women’s rugby competition. They wrapped up the competition undefeated, accounting for the Rebels, Reds, Brumbies, Western Force, and the champion Waratahs twice, which was also the New South Wales’ franchise team’s first defeat since the tournament’s inception in 2018.
