The Super Rugby W competition continues to prove itself as a vital steppingstone for local Fijian women players aiming for the international stage.
As the Vodafone Fijiana XV prepare to take on the Wallaroos on Saturday, forwards coach Ifereimi Rawaqa says the exposure from Super Rugby has lifted the standard in the national camp.
“The good thing about Super Rugby is that it’s our pathway from our local competitions to international level,” Rawaqa said after training at Albert Park.
He believes the competition has given Fijiana players the tools to match top-tier teams like the Wallaroos.
“They’ve been training well and hopefully they get a run on Saturday.”
Among those pushing for selection is Fijian Drua centre Josivini Naihamu, who has been working her way back from injury.
“Training has been tough because I was injured, just trying hard to come back during sessions,” she said.
Despite being sidelined due to injury during the Super W season, Naihamu remains determined to earn selection.
“It’s not easy, but I’m grateful to God for giving me the strength so I can continue training before the team gets selected.” Rawaqa added that the focus remains on perfecting the basics.
“We will make sure we look after our lineouts, our scrums, our defense and attack. It’s all about execution.”
Despite acknowledging the Wallaroos as one of the best in the world, Rawaqa said the Fijiana team’s only focus is on themselves.
The test kicks off at 5pm at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva.
Meanwhile earlier in the day, the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua will host the Reds at 2.05pm in round 12 of the Super Rugby Pacific clash
