A curtain raiser match between the British Army and Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) will add onto the excitement of the Test match between the FIJI Water Flying Fijians and Scotland next month.
It will be the most recent meeting between both teams after a decade, when the RFMF beat their opponents 30-10 in the final of the 2015 International Defence Rugby Championship.
The fixture was announced at Rugby House in Suva yesterday, as the clock ticks to the Scotland Test here at home.
Fiji Rugby Union chief executive Koli Sewabu stated the match would add another dimension of strength to the existing military relationship between the two nations.
“The upcoming match is a celebration of military brotherhood, rugby diplomacy, and a showcase of talent for which both institutions are well known,” Sewabu shared.
“We thank both military leaders for bringing this fixture to Fiji. This is more than just a game—it’s a celebration of military ties, cultural exchange, and the unifying power of sport.”
RFMF Chief of Staff – Operations, Lieutenant-Colonel Netani Kaukimoce also acknowledged the opportunity for both teams to engage in the clash.
“We are incredibly excited and are eagerly looking forward to playing the British Army on the (July) 12th and it’s not going to be just a rugby match, but it’s looking at it as celebrating the bond of brotherhood which exists between the two forces,” Lt.Col Kaukimoce said.
“It’s been forged through the service, mutual respect and deep appreciation of the spirit of friendly competition.”
Joining the press conference virtually from the United Kingdom, UK Defence Academy Chief of Staff, Colonel Graham Taylor acknowledged the competition awaiting his side when they reach Fijian shores on July 11, a day before the curtain raiser and Test.
“On behalf of British Army, it’s an absolute delight and a privilege to have the opportunity to travel to Fiji and to play rugby against the royal Fijian military force,” Col. Taylor stated.
“The British Army team are extremely excited with this fantastic opportunity.”
Meanwhile, the British Army will also travel to Fiji with eight Fijian players in the team including ex-England winger Semesa Rokoduguni.
