FIJI’S ambition to join Australia’s elite rugby league system has received a significant boost, with funding pathways identified and top-level coaching interest confirmed, according to Fiji National Rugby League (FNRL) chairman Rajesh Singh.
In a recent interview, Singh detailed the financial requirements necessary to secure entry into the Knock-On Effect New South Wales Cup, a crucial stepping stone towards the National Rugby League (NRL).
“We have to put a million dollars as guarantee to New South Wales Rugby League,” Singh explained. “Once we put that guarantee in, we get the licence and that’s where we will start that competition,” he said.
He emphasised that funding avenues are already being pursued through partnerships and sponsorship deals.
“The funding is coming under the Vuvale partnership, and we’ll be working on the sponsors. We’ve already got some sponsors who are showing interest to sponsor the team,” he said.
Singh also confirmed engagement with key stakeholders to support the initiative. “I’ve approached DFAT and also for NRL to give… NRL will give funding,” he remarked.
The FNRL chairman revealed that strong interest from experienced NRL coaches has further strengthened the bid, naming Matt Elliott, Mick Potter, and Anthony Seibold among those eager to be involved.
He said the coaches were aligned with Fiji’s long-term development approach.
“They said… ‘let us come and help you, prepare the team for one and a half year… start playing in 2028,’” Singh said.
Under the proposed model, a squad will be selected locally and developed over time before entering the competition.
“So, these players will be groomed for one and a half years… and then 2028, when the season starts in March, they’ll be playing in that competition,” he explained.
Singh likened the initiative to the early structure of the Fijian Drua.
“This club is the same concept… when Drua started, two years they went and played in New South Wales competition, same thing,” he said.
He reiterated that the long-term objective remains entry into the NRL but stressed that groundwork must be completed first.
“This is a stepping stone… for us to prove ourselves in the New South Wales Cup,” he said.
However, for all this to come to fruition and for sponsors and investors to commit, they first need to get their house and their books in order.
“But first thing, get our house in order then we go to the next level,” Singh stated. “So that’s why we are trying to get this audited account done for 2024-2025. Then have an AGM.”
