YOUNG LEADER ALFREDA FISHER TO CAPTAIN VODAFONE FIJIANA XV AGAINST WALLAROOS
The Vodafone Fijiana XV will make history this Saturday as they host the Wallaroos for the very first time on home soil with 20-year-old Alfreda Fisher named as captain for the much-anticipated Test match at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.
Fisher, who made her debut at the WXV3 tournament in 2024, becomes the youngest-ever captain in the history of the Vodafone Fijiana XV.
Vodafone Fijiana Head Coach Ioan Cunningham said,
“Firstly, we’re really excited and looking forward to this historic fixture. Fisher being named captain is fantastic for her — she’s been a standout individual in our group, leading by example. She’s performed really well, especially with the Fijiana Drua in recent weeks, and we’re incredibly proud of this opportunity for her.”
Returning to the national fold is Vani Arei, who has recovered from her injury sustained during last year’s World Cup Qualifier in Brisbane. She will support Fisher as the team’s vice captain.
The selected match day 23 blends youth with experience. Up front, Salanieta Nabuli and Anasimeci Korovata will start at prop, with Jade Coates and Mereoni Nakesa locking the scrum. A dynamic flanker duo features Fisher and Adi Salaseini Railumu, while Olympic bronze medallist Rusila Nagasau packs down at number 8.
In the backs, Kolora Lomani starts at half-back, partnering Salanieta Kinita at fly-half. Aloesi Nakoci and Repeka Tove provide pace on the wings, while Josivini Naihamu and Vani Arei pair up in the midfield. Luisa Tisolo anchors the fullback position.
The bench brings further strength and depth, with Bitila Tawake providing experience at hooker, while debutant Lavenia Gray and Tiana Robanakadavu cover the props. Merevesi Ofakimalino and Karalaini Naisewa bring power to the backrow. Setaita Railumu, Ema Adivitaloga, and Atelaite Buna round out the reserves.
Head Coach Cunningham added:
“We’re really pleased with the team we’ve selected. We’ve spoken a lot about this opportunity to inspire — to go out there, enjoy the moment, and express themselves. This is still a key part of our journey towards the Rugby World Cup.”
The Vodafone Fijiana XV will take on the Wallaroos at 3pm, Saturday 3rd May at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.
Fans are encouraged to come out in numbers in what will be the team’s 42nd test match and 12th on home soil.
Be part of this historic moment for women’s rugby in Fiji.
TEAM LIST v Wallaroos (3rd May,2025)
1. Salanieta Nabuli
2. Keleni Marawa
3. Anasimeci Korovata
4. Jade Coates
5. Mereoni Nakesa
6. Alfreda Fisher ©
7. Adi Salaseini Railumu
8. Rusila Nagasau
9. Kolora Lomani
10. Salanieta Kinita
11. Aloesi Nakoci
12. Josivini Naihamu
13. Vani Arei
14. Repeka Tove
15. Luisa Tisolo
IMPACT:
16. Bitila Tawake
17. Lavenia Gray **
18. Tiana Robanakadavu
19. Merevesi Ofakimalino
20. Karalaini Naisewa
21. Setaita Railumu
22. Ema Adivitaloga
23. Atelaite Buna