Press Release: Vodafone Fijiana XV Test Match Takes Centre Stage in aCelebration of Fiji Rugby

Fiji Rugby has welcomed the passionate discussion surrounding this weekend’s Vodafone Fijiana XV Test Match against South Africa, recognizing the deep pride that Fijians have in our national teams and the continued growth of women’s rugby.

The Vodafone Fijiana XV will host South Africa in an official World Rugby-sanctioned Test Match at HFC Bank Stadium on Saturday, a significant international fixture between two proud rugby nations and an important milestone for women’s rugby in Fiji and the Pacific.

This Test represents much more than eighty minutes of rugby. It reflects the continued progress of the Vodafone Fijiana XVs programme and the opportunities being created for the next generation of female athletes whaspire to represent Fiji on the international stage.

Fiji Rugby acknowledges that some supporters have questioned the scheduling of the day’s matches. The intention has never been to diminish the importance of the Vodafone Fijiana XV Test. Rather, Fiji Rugby deliberately designed the day to showcase the complete rugby pathway, from our future stars competing in the Vodafone Deans and Weetbix Raluve competitions to our elite women proudly representing Fiji against
one of the world’s leading rugby nations.

The organization believes there is no stronger message than seeing thousands of young rugby players and supporters filling HFC Bank Stadium to witness the Vodafone Fijiana XV before continuing to enjoy the
excitement of the Deans National Quarterfinals.Fiji Rugby Chief Executive Officer Koli Sewabu said the organization remained fully committed to providing greater opportunities and visibility for women’s rugby.

“The Vodafone Fijiana XV are not only representing Fiji this weekend, but they are also inspiring the next generation of young girls and boys who dream of wearing the white jersey. This Test Match is an important
international occasion for Fiji Rugby, and we encourage every supporter to arrive early, stand behind our women, and create an atmosphere worthy of a Test Match.”

“This weekend is about celebrating the entire rugby family. 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.”

Fiji Rugby Board Member Cathy Wong said the occasion should be viewed as a celebration of the progress women’s rugby has made and the future that lies ahead.

“As a Board Member and someone who strongly believes in creatingopportunities for women and girls in sport, I see this Test Match as one of the most important events on our rugby calendar. Our Vodafone Fijiana XV
have earned the right to represent Fiji on the international stage through their commitment, sacrifice and performances.”

“The presence of thousands of young rugby players at HFC Bank Stadium presents a unique opportunity. Every girl watching from the stands should be able to see herself one day wearing the Fijiana jersey. That is the legacy
we hope this occasion will leave.”

Hosting South Africa in Fiji was made possible through the collective efforts of Fiji Rugby and its commercial partners, whose commitment ensured this international fixture could proceed despite significant logistical
and financial challenges associated with international travel.

Fiji Rugby extends its sincere appreciation to its sponsors, partners, volunteers and supporters whose continued investment is helping strengthen women’s rugby and create more opportunities for Fiji’s national teams. Supporters are encouraged to arrive early, proudly support the Vodafone Fijiana XV against South Africa, and remain to enjoy an outstanding afternoon of school rugby as the Vodafone Deans and Weetbix Raluve
National Quarterfinals get underway.

Saturday is not about choosing between Fijiana and Deans.