Rooster Chicken Fijiana Drua interim coach Inoke Male says the team is taking shape and hopes to put together a formidable combination before the start of their Super W title defence.
The Fijiana face the ACT Brumbies first up on March 25 infront of a home crowd at Prince Charles Park in Nadi.
With several senior players from their inaugural campaign last season taking up contracts in Australia, New Zealand and Japan, half the team this year is made of debutants who eager to stamp their mark on the international stage.
Male said they were building a routine to defend the Super W title, with fitness to last the gruelling tests top of the list.
“They (new recruits) will be new to the international level but their dream of playing in the local championships has paved the way for these young girls,” the former Flying Fijians forward said.
“I have faith in these girls as they have been training hard for the past six weeks. They have been hitting the sand dunes for the past week and looking at them now, we can see a big change in them physically.
“I know they will take up the task and they will defend the trophy.”
Male took over the head coach’s post as an interim after the resignation of Senirusi Seruvakula last month.
With a 42-member extended squad in camp, Male said they were looking forward to their first home game against the Brumbies.
He said the senior players in the side would play an important role to their campaign.
“Right now we are conducting fitness runs and getting them in shape for the match.
“Most of them are young players and we are grateful to have the senior players who have been helping us.
“We also have good leaders such as Asinate Serevi, Bitila Tawake, they will lead these young girls to a successful season for Super W.”
Fijiana Drua’s 2023 Super W series matches:
Saturday, March 25 – Fijiana Drua v Brumbies at Prince Charles Park, Nadi.
Saturday, April 1 – Fijiana Drua v Rebels at HFC Stadium, Suva.
Saturday, April 8 – Fijiana Drua v Waratahs ATConcord Oval, Sydney
Sunday, April 16 – Fijiana Drua v Western Force at Mcgillivary Oval, Perth.
Sunday, April 23 – Fijiana Drua v Reds at Sci-Fleet Stadium, Brisbane
