SWIRE Shipping Fijian Drua co-captain and lock Temo Mayanavanua is expecting a fast-paced contest as his side prepares to face the Skipper Select XV for the coveted Sun Bell Trophy this Friday.
Reflecting on his experiences playing in the UK and across various international competitions, Mayanavanua highlighted the different demands of each league. He pointed to the physicality of France’s Top 14, the tempo of the English Premiership, and the speed of Super Rugby.
Having recently returned to the faster pace of Super Rugby, Mayanavanua said he is excited about the upcoming clash and remains focused on sharpening his awareness to secure his place in the team each week.
He also acknowledged the talent and hunger within the Skipper Select XV, expressing confidence in their potential and ambition to excel.
“I know there will be players in the Skipper Select who are really talented and hungry to be part of this set-up, and I wish them all the best,” Mayanavanua said.
He described the match as an important platform to showcase local talent and highlighted the role of the Skipper Cup in nurturing players and creating opportunities.
“It’s a good way to promote local talent and to show that the Skipper Cup has a purpose,” he said.
Fans can expect an exhibition of Fijian flair from both teams, featuring big hits, skilful offloads, and an exciting day of rugby.
The clash between the Skipper Select XV and the Drua will be played this Friday at Churchill Park in Lautoka, with kick-off scheduled for 4pm.
Drua boosted by global coverage, extend broadcast deal
A SIGNIFICANT milestone has been reached as Super Rugby Pacific coverage expands into millions of households worldwide, according to Shane Hussein, Head of Commercial and Marketing for the Fijian Drua.
Hussein highlighted the tournament’s growing global reach, with broadcasters on every continent now televising Super Rugby Pacific matches.
He said the expanded coverage not only benefits the sport but also provides a boost for Fiji’s tourism industry.
“It is great to see this growth.
Super Rugby Pacific is now reaching millions of households around the world, and that exposure is also a strong positive for tourism in our country,” Hussein said.
Meanwhile, the Fijian Drua and Fiji Broadcasting Corporation (FBC) have extended their broadcast partnership for the next three seasons of the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific.
The agreement ensures fans can continue to watch all Swire Shipping Fijian Drua matches free-toair on FBC Sports HD via set-top boxes.
Swire Shipping Fijian Drua chief executive Jeff Miller also welcomed the return of Veremi Vakatawa, praising the former international’s experience and leadership.
“He has been amazing since coming back. There was a bit of a delay at the start, but the advice and expertise he brings from playing overseas have been fantastic,” Miller said.
Anticipation is building for the Drua’s final trial match against a provincial select team, scheduled for this Friday at 4pm at Churchill Park in Lautoka.
The Drua take on Moana Pasifika in their opening Super Rugby match next week.
