FORMER Fiji Airways Fijiana 7s captain Verenaisi Ditavutu is relishing her transition to 15s as she prepares for what could be one of the biggest matches of her rugby career.
This match will be Ditavutu’s first home semi-final in the McDonald’s Fijian Drua Women’s squad against the Queensland Reds this Saturday at Churchill Park in Lautoka.
After making her Drua debut in Round Three against the ACT Brumbies at Four R Stadium in Ba, Ditavutu has quickly adapted to the demands of the 15-a-side game and is eager to earn selection for the home knockout clash.
The experienced sevens player said the move to the Drua environment had been smoother than expected, having already spent time with many of the players during Fiji’s preparations for the Rugby World Cup.
“It was really good. The preparation was good, trying to fit in with the girls and learning the 15s,” she said.
While the two formats require different approaches, Ditavutu believes the biggest adjustment has been understanding the pace and structure of the game.
“The transition was good, going from sevens to 15s because you get to rest more with 15 players on the field. In sevens, you have to keep that energy and make those efforts throughout the game, so it’s been good.”
Competition for places has intensified as the Drua prepare for the semi-final, with coach Mike Legge highlighting the squad’s depth ahead of naming his match-day team.
After being named in the 23 match-day team against the Reds, Ditavutu knew that she had been working hard to earn her place.
“The coach said it’s going to be a tough selection because there are a lot of players in my position. I’m tried to get better every day and prove that I deserve to play against the Reds.”
Playing a home semi-final in front of family and friends would make the occasion even more memorable for the former Fijiana 7s skipper.
“It’s going to be a special one for me because it’s my first home semi-final, and it will only be the second game I’ll play at home with my family and friends there supporting me. It’s going to be special.”
Ditavutu will be an impact player covering the back three in this home semi-final against the Reds.
She also called on Drua supporters to pack Churchill Park and create a memorable atmosphere.
