The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua team gears up for their final match of the Super Rugby Pacific season against the Queensland Reds this Saturday at Suncorp Stadium and head coach Glen Jackson says the squad is determined to finish on a high.
After a week’s break, Jackson admitted the build-up has felt long, but the team is excited to return to the field.
“It feels like the prep has been a long one. Obviously, with the bye last week, it feels like a long time since we played the Force.
“At the moment, it’s going well. I know the boys are excited to finish the season well,” Jackson said.
However, there are few injuries within the camp, and this will be finalised when head coach Jackson name his lineup today.
“We’ve got a few injuries, so we’re not naming the team until Wednesday. At this stage, you’ve got to make sure everyone comes through all right, and then we’ll get our best team on the field,” Jackson explained.
Facing the Reds in Brisbane presents a tough challenge, especially with the home side eyeing a strong finish to boost their playoff hopes.
“We love playing the Reds. I think I said it after the game. They’re a great organisation, good coaches. Our boys know a lot about the Reds.
“It’s going to be a good game, especially playing at Suncorp. I think it’s one of the best stadiums in Super Rugby,” he added.
Jackson said his side is focused on controlling the tempo and maintaining dominance up front.
“They certainly like to keep the ball alive. They play a lot of rugby. I think last week was the first time they took a penalty shot at goal.
“It’s a game that hopefully suits us. It should be fast, and we’ve got to make sure that we front up through the middle with our forward pack. That’s certainly where you win or lose the game against the Reds.”
While a few players remain under observation, Jackson confirmed there have been no new major injuries.
“We’ve got a few bumps and bruises that we just got to make sure we manage. But yeah, we’re pretty good, I think, around making sure that everyone who’s up for selection we haven’t had any new major injuries, which is great news.”
The Drua play the Reds on Saturday at 9.35pm in Brisbane.
Meanwhile, Jackson has revealed that planning is already underway for the 2026 Super Rugby Pacific season, with a strong focus on both player readiness and mental health.
While the current campaign is wrapping up, Jackson confirmed that several players are expected to be named in the Flying Fijians squad next week, meaning their off-season will be anything but quiet.
“A lot of our players will hopefully be selected next week for the Flying Fijians, so they’ll be hitting the air.
“They’ve got a big programme ahead with test matches lined up. So, for those players, we wish them all the best and congratulations on their selection.”
For those staying behind, Jackson assured that there will be opportunities to continue playing and maintaining form, either in the domestic Skipper Cup competition or through overseas club contracts.
“We’re making sure that all our players are still playing rugby and making sure we’re looking after them,” he said.
Reflecting on this season’s bonding trip to Kadavu, Jackson said such experiences are key to building unity and grounding the team in its roots.
