Front-rower Bulou Wainikiti Vasuturaga has earned her place in the 32-member Vodafone Fijiana 15s squad preparing for the upcoming 2025 Oceania Rugby Women’s Championship.
Vasuturaga is no stranger to the national side after being part of the 2022 Fijiana XV Rugby World Cup team.
The former Police 7s player who also played for Suva women in the ANZ Marama Championship impressed national selectors during the Na Soko Championship last month.
Head coach Iona Cunningham has also named four new players in the squad including Michellae Stolz, Selai Naliva, Noame Komaitai, and Adi Salote Nailolo.
Returning to the squad are key veterans in Bitila Tawake, Rusila Nagasau, Asinate Serevi, Iris Verebalavu, and Jade Coates, who bring leadership and international experience.
“This tournament is a crucial stepping stone as we prepare for the Rugby World Cup,” said Cunningham.
“We’re focused on building depth, sharpening combinations, and continuing the growth of our playing group, especially after strong performances against top-tier opposition.”
The Oceania Rugby Women’s Championship is scheduled to take place from Friday, June 6 to Saturday, June 14, 2025.
The tournament will see Fiji once again face off against Pacific rivals Tonga and Samoa, in a key build-up to the Rugby World Cup.
Squad: Bitila Tawake, Salanieta Nabuli , Keleni Marawa, Iris Verebalavu, Loraini Senivutu, Lavenia Nauga-Grey, Tiana Robanakadavu, Selai Naliva, Asinate Serevi, Jade Coates, Mereoni Nakesa, Nunia Daunimoala, Alfreda Fisher, Adi Salaseini Railumu, Karalaini Naisewa, Bulou Wainikiti Vasuturaga, Rusila Nagasau, Litiana Vueti, Repeka Tove, Ema Adivitaloga, Josifini Neihamu, Atelaite Buna, Michella’e Stolz, Repeka Mata, Salanieta Kinita, Setaita Railumu, Luisa Tisolo, Kolora Lomani, Carletta Yee, Noame Komaitai, Aloesi Nakoci and Adi Salote Nailolo.
