DEFENDING Skipper Cup champions and holders of the Farebrother Challenge BLK Nadroga rugby side are leaving no stone unturned as they will try to defend their title.
They take on Nadi in a warm-up match today at 7.30pm at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka.
Nadroga is expecting a tough challenge from neighbours Nadi.
Nadroga Rugby president Jikoibau Matawalu said the side had prepared well and was looking forward to the challenges ahead.
“We have about 80 players in our player base so we will be rotating all these players during the season. This will help keep the team fresh and injury free,” Matawalu said.
“Core of the team from last year will be playing this year with some new players. We don’t have any players from other unions this year because we groom our own players.”
Matawalu highlighted the new season would be tougher compared with last year.
“It is going to be a very tough season as all the teams have been preparing well. We cannot underestimate any team now. As defending champions all the other teams will try to dethrone us,” Matawalu added.
“We have lost two players to the Malolo rugby team as per transfer guidelines. These two players are Seremai Naureure and Jiuta Litumailagi .
“The absence of these two players will be felt but we do have other quality players who can do the job for us.”
Some of the overseas players who will feature for the team during the season are Jonetani Ralulu, Rupeni Nasiga, Napolioni Nalaga, Jone Qovu amd Akapusi Qera.
