The race for the 2025 Ba Rugby Union Vinod Patel Cup has taken a dramatic turn with defending champions Natalecake bowing out in a tight quarter-final clash, losing 20-23 to the determined Ba River side last Saturday at Vinod Patel Ground.
With Natalecake out of the title picture, a new champion is set to be crowned next week, and this Saturday’s semi-finals are expected to be nothing short of explosive.
The Votua village-based Ba River team will carry their momentum into the semi-final where they face traditional powerhouse Nailaga, who narrowly defeated Balevuto 29-27 in their quarterfinal. Kick-off for that clash is scheduled for 2:30pm.
In the second Vinod Patel Cup semi-final, high-flying Toge fresh from their commanding 32-13 win over Navala will take on Tabalei, who edged Sasa 8-5 in a defensive battle. This match, the day’s main event, kicks off at 4pm.
Meanwhile, the INOX Trophy competition has also heated up, with FSC, Services Ba, Bukuya, and Nanoko all booking semi-final spots after thrilling quarterfinal battles last Saturday.
FSC displayed superior fitness and composure to overcome Natutu 22-13, while Services Ba held off Vatutavui in a tight 9-7 win decided by penalties. Bukuya got past Natunuku 18-12, and Nanoko outclassed Nasivikoso 24-12.
This Saturday, Nanoko will face Bukuya in the first INOX Trophy semi-final at 2:30pm. The second semi-final will feature the Rarawai-based FSC team taking on disciplined Services Ba at 4pm.
Rugby fans in Ba can look forward to an exciting afternoon of grassroots rugby as the best village teams battle it out for a place in the finals.
