It will be a 2024 Grand Final rematch at Sydney’s Allianz Stadium when the Rooster Chicken Fijian Drua Women run out for their Round 1 of Smartech Business Systems Super Rugby Women competition tomorrow.
Head Coach Ifereimi Rawaqa has named a strong line-up to take on defending champions, the NSW Waratahs in their home ground. He has handed the captaincy reins to seasoned campaigner Vika Matarugu and named blockbusting attacker Vitalina Naikore as vice-captain.
The team features six debutants, including Fijiana reps Alfreda Fisher, Josivini Naihamu, and Alowesi Nakoci, who will bring fresh energy to the starting 15. Returning stars like Naikore, Kolora Lomani, and Ema Adivitaloga are set to make their mark once again.
In the starting 15, prop Salanieta Nabuli will start at loosehead in the season opener, with captain Matarugu at tight head prop. Keleni Marawa starts at hooker.
In the middle row, Mereoni Nakesa partners with Asinate Serevi at 5 . Fisher is at blindside flanker with Railumu at openside flanker. Former captain Karalaini Naisewa will start at 8, who remains an integral part of the team.
In the backline, Kolora Lomani will make her return at halfback, partnering Salanieta Kinita (who is at flyhalf. Nakoci secures her spot in the left wing with Repeka Tove on the right wing. Naihamu starts at inside centre with vice-captain Naikore outside her. Luisa Tisolo completes the starting line-up at fullback.
On the bench, Rawaqa has named newcomer Isabella Koi as backup hooker, Loraini Senivutu will cover the loosehead prop role with Ana Korovata as back-up tight head. Adivitaloga will cover for locks and Bitila Tawake backs up the loose forward trio. Evivi Senikarivi will cover halfback with Litiana Vueti covering flyhalf. Merewairita Neivosa covers the rest of the backline.
With eleven players returning from last season’s grand final squad, the Drua Women are determined to avenge their previous defeat. They are ready to leave everything on the field and begin their campaign with a victory.
