KADAVU’S preparations for its long-awaited return to the Skipper Cup will face their first major test this Saturday when the side takes on Naitasiri in its opening warm-up match of the season.
The fixture is an important step in the province’s build-up to its first appearance in Fiji Rugby’s premier provincial competition in more than 20 years after securing promotion through last year’s win in the Vodafone Vanua Championship.
Having spent the past six weeks training in Kadavu, the team has now shifted its focus to match conditions, with Saturday’s encounter expected to provide valuable insight into the squad’s readiness for the challenges ahead.
Team manager Mataiasi Daveta said preparations have been limited but focused as the squad works towards final selection ahead of the season.
“The preparation period is short. We spent six weeks in Kadavu, and now we’re working towards finalising our squad,” Daveta said.
An extended squad of 75 players has been assembled for the campaign, with selectors expected to trim the group to 60 following the Naitasiri match.
Further warm-up fixtures against Police and Tailevu sides will help coaches assess combinations and identify the players best suited for the demands of the Skipper Cup.
Daveta expects the transition to top-flight provincial rugby to be a challenging one for the newly promoted side.
“The first match isn’t easy, as it is the first time we get to play in the Skipper Cup,” he said.
While earning promotion was a significant achievement, Kadavu’s ambitions extend beyond simply retaining its place in the competition.
“Our aim is to not lose our position in the Skipper Cup and be in the top six when the season is over,” Daveta said.
Adding further excitement to the campaign is the anticipated arrival of experienced players, including former Flying Fijians representatives Albert Tuisue and Leone Nakarawa, along with Vuate Karawalevu and Josua Vici, once administrative processes are complete.
Their inclusion is expected to further strengthen a squad already determined to make an impact on its return to the top level.
The province’s success for last year’s Vodafone Vanua Cup has also united communities across Kadavu, with support continuing to pour in from all nine districts as the team prepares for a historic season.
“We thank the vanua for the support shown to the team back on the island and even now when we’re here in Suva,” Daveta said.
