Vodafone Fijiana XV | iTatau to Fiji’s Prime Minister

In a heartfelt and characteristically candid address, Fiji’s Prime Minister, Hon. Sitiveni Rabuka, wished the Vodafone Fijiana XV well as they depart for a crucial Test match against Australia’s Wallaroos, urging them to play with the same pride that has defined Fijian rugby for generations.

Speaking to the team ahead of their journey, the Prime Minister, a former rugby player himself, drew on his own experiences to inspire the squad. He reminisced about the ceremonial traditions of rugby, noting that while the pace of the game has changed, the heart behind it remains eternal.

“We may not be very fast during our time. When I see how other players of today run, they will probably think we were crawling around in those days,” Hon. Rabuka said with a smile. “But one thing does not change, and that is the pride you have in your heart.”

The Prime Minister’s speech was punctuated with humour and the wisdom of a man who has felt the physical toll of the sport. Joking about his own playing days, he told the players, “I have had two knee surgeries. And six weeks ago, I had a new hip.”

He used his own experiences to illustrate the sacrifices required and the unseen support system behind every player. He told the team that every time they take the field, they carry not just themselves, but the hopes of an entire nation.

“Every time you put your hand on the symbol, right above your heart – give it all you have,” he urged them.

“Remember, you’re carrying 920,800 people. That’s the population of Fiji. Not a million yet. But all of us are cheering for you. We are gunning for you, we are praying for you.”

He acknowledged the challenging economic times, referencing “panic buying” of fuel in Fiji, but used it as a metaphor for the team’s approach to the game. Drawing a parallel between national preparedness and athletic performance, he advised the players to rely on their training.

“If you prepare well for whatever comes, you will not panic on the day. You do what you were taught to do. Do it well, do it better than the other team, and come back victorious,” he said.

The Vodafone Fijiana XV travel to Australia on Saturday as they prepare for the match against the Wallaroos to challenge the Vuvale Cup.