CJ Patel Reaffirms Longstanding Commitment to Fiji Rugby with SKIPPER XV Naming Rights.

Fiji Rugby is proud to announce the continuation of its long-standing and loyal partnership with CJ Patel, as the iconic Fijian brand takes on the naming rights of the Skipper Cup Select side, now officially known as the SKIPPER XV.
 
The SKIPPER XV will face the Fijian Drua in a landmark pre-season match on 6 February 2026, marking the first time the Fijian Drua will compete against a locally selected men’s representative side drawn from the Skipper Cup provincial competition.
 
This historic fixture represents another major milestone in the partnership between CJ Patel and Fiji Rugby, a relationship built on shared values of development, opportunity, and the enduring Fijian Spirit.
 
The match provides a rare and invaluable opportunity for provincial players to showcase their talent on a professional stage, offering exposure to elite-level performance environments while accelerating national rugby development pathways.
 
“Our partnership with Fiji Rugby has always been about more than sponsorship, it is about investing in the future of Fijian rugby and creating opportunities for our young youths across the country,” said CJ Patel Group Marketing Manager Ms Monisha Prasad.
 
“The SKIPPER XV represents the heart of provincial rugby, and we are proud to stand alongside these players as they step onto a field against the Fijian Drua.”
 
Fiji Rugby CEO Koli Sewabu welcomed the continued commitment:
 
“CJ Patel’s continued support is a powerful statement of confidence in Fijian rugby and its future. The naming of the SKIPPER XV reinforces their commitment to grassroots development and the next generation of Fijian talent.”
 
The SKIPPER brand has long stood alongside Fiji Rugby as a trusted partner, championing the growth of local competitions and strengthening the pathways from grassroots to the international stage.
 
The upcoming clash between the Fijian Drua and the SKIPPER XV promises to be a thrilling contest, blending the professionalism of Super Rugby with the raw passion and pride of Fiji’s provincial game.
 
Match Details
6 February 2026
SKIPPER XV vs Fijian Drua
Churchill Park, Lautoka
 
Fiji Rugby extends its deepest appreciation to CJ Patel and the SKIPPER brand for their unwavering support of Fijian rugby and their continued investment in the development of players and competitions.