THE Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) has confirmed that the conduct of match officials and organisers during the Naitasiri Rugby Union club match involving the late rugby player, Kaminieli Talanacolo, is under review as part of a full inquiry into the circumstances surrounding his injury and subsequent death.
Talanacolo’s passing has sparked widespread concern within Fiji’s rugby community, raising questions about whether sufficient action was taken after he reportedly sustained an injury during an officially sanctioned club match approximately two weeks ago. Responding to these concerns, FRU Acting Chief Operations Officer Talemo Waqa confirmed that the union was formally notified of the injury through the Naitasiri Rugby Union officials and hospital contacts.
“Yes, through Naitasiri Rugby Secretary and also from hospital contacts,” Waqa said.
Waqa also confirmed that the conduct of match officials and organisers would be scrutinised as part of the investigation. When asked directly whether their conduct would be reviewed, his response was clear: “Yes.”
He said FRU had already received official reports from all parties involved, including the Match Day Doctor, referee, match commissioner, and the union itself.
“Reports submitted by MDD, referee and Match Commissioner has provided report to FRFU. Union also provides report,” he said.
Waqa explained that while written reports indicate player welfare protocols were followed, the union’s full inquiry would determine whether there were any gaps.
“Written report does show that but will leave it to the full enquiry to get the full picture and to determine what else to do,” he said.
He revealed that every serious injury and death is automatically reviewed by FRU’s Medical Injury Prevention Group, which meets weekly and includes doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, and first responders.
“Every injury as such — FRFU always conduct report on such injury and deaths,” Waqa said.
Regarding match-day safety requirements, Waqa said FRU mandates strict minimum standards for all sanctioned provincial club matches.
“Every ground — one ICIR doctor, one ICIR nurse plus four FAIR, one ambulance and one medical vehicle, two stretchers and two collars per ground.” He confirmed those requirements were met on the day.
“Yes — one MDD and one nurse and four to six paramedics.”
Waqa added that Talanacolo was medically assessed at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital and FRU was informed by hospital medics.
Looking ahead, Waqa said FRU would continue strengthening player safety by investing in better training for doctors, nurses, physiotherapists, first aiders, and coaches.
“We will continue to look at ways to enhance player welfare in all rugby games all over Fiji.”
FRU has also presented its reguregu to the Talanacolo family.
and continues discussions through the Naitasiri executive as the investigation remains ongoing.
