I’ll never forget the 63rd minute: Kuruvoli crossed the line for what looked like a game-changing try.
It was classic Fijian flair with Maqala bursting through the middle and passing to Kurivoli to score. The scoreboard seemed ready to flicker to 25–26, just in England’s favour, as Fiji closed the gap. This came despite two yellow cards and Fiji leading and conceding that lead during one of these sinbin moments. For a moment, the stadium fell silent – home fans sensing the tide turning – while the Fijian diaspora roared, daring to dream of an unforgettable upset. Then came the referee’s call: knock-on. Harsh, perhaps, for those of us who believe rugby should reward attacking brilliance. In that instant, the game swung back to England, who unleashed their depth, bringing on Lions-winning captain Itoje.
During the build-up to the game, I was honoured to be invited to the team’s Jersey Presentation ceremony – a humbling and deeply emotional evening. I witnessed firsthand the pride that flows through Fijian veins: pride in their country, their people, their vanua, and in each other. It was more than a ritual; it was a powerful affirmation of identity and unity. I also saw how the Fijian diaspora rallied alongside their high commission, creating a circle of support that transcended borders, all bound by a shared sense of purpose and pride. That moment will stay with me – a reminder that rugby for Fiji is not just a sport, but a living expression of culture and community.
Turning back to the match, that disallowed try captures the essence of elite sport: the finest margins – milliseconds, inches – decide victory or defeat. Yet beyond the scoreline, Fiji proved something bigger: they belong at the very top. They had England wobbling, and the following week were again unlucky against France, dominating possession. Fiji stands on the cusp of more history-making moments.
This history is, in many ways, a national story of resilience and ambition. Every player carries the weight of countless sacrifices – families giving up hours to nurture dreams, volunteers working tirelessly to keep grassroots alive, and fans roaring from the sidelines. It begins with young boys imagining themselves as the next Serevi or Caucaunibuca, and stretches from the sand dunes of Sigatoka, the beating heart of Fijian rugby, to the Deans Trophy, to the 7s Olympic Gold medal win, and the rise of the Drua. Together, these moments have built an unshakable legacy: Fiji’s rise to the global stage.
And this global stage offers more than sporting glory. When Fiji played England, the community hosted a trade event alongside the match, with the UK-sponsored International Trade Centre showcasing Fijian businesses and art – from cocoa growers to skincare producers to sauce makers – opening new avenues for development and prosperity. Also present were three artists who had come to the UK on an exchange program through the Fiji Society to showcase to the world their specialist skills.
This is a brilliant example of how sport can open doors beyond the field. Next year, Fiji will play in the United Kingdom twice against Wales and Scotland. I hope these will be further opportunities to unite Fiji’s talent – athletes, entrepreneurs, artists – and show the world what this nation can offer, perhaps even combining these moments with the increasingly popular Bula Festival in the UK where Fijians celebrate their vibrant culture. And maybe, just maybe, Fiji’s rise can pave the way for future internationals to be hosted here at home, or make the case for visiting teams, including the Lions, to stop off in Fiji and test themselves against the best.
Who would have thought that a young boy in 1823, over 10,000 miles away in the town of rugby, would inspire countless similar young boys to pick up the ball and run – this time in fields as far-flung as Kadavu, Sigatoka, and Labasa? The power of rugby – to inspire, innovate, and build resilience – can also unlock the full spectrum of Fiji’s talent on the global stage. I can’t wait to join in and support this journey.
