Hurricanes captain Jordie Barrett is eager for the challenge that awaits his team in Fiji as they prepare for a thrilling round two matchup against the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua. Arriving with enthusiasm, Barrett expressed the unique excitement of playing on Fijian soil, stating that the atmosphere and passionate fans create an unforgettable experience, even if the climate is a stark reminder of their distant home.
“It’s great to be here as always. The fans are great, and as you can tell, I’m sweating already. It’s nice to be over here, and we’ve got a big challenge coming up,” Barrett remarked.
As they gear up for the showdown at Churchill Park—a venue Barrett has yet to experience—he anticipates a fierce contest, particularly with the Drua’s dynamic backline set to perform in front of enthusiastic local supporters. “Honestly, it’s such a hard challenge, particularly here. I’ve never been to this ground, so it’s something I’m really looking forward to,” he expressed.
Looking back on past encounters, Barrett noted that their previous matches in Fiji had been incredibly close, both decided by a mere single score with one victory for each side. With that history in mind, he expects another nail-biting clash this weekend.
As excitement builds ahead of the match, Barrett has encouraged local fans to fill the stands and elevate the atmosphere, promising a memorable event for everyone. The Hurricanes will face off against the Drua at 3:35 PM tomorrow at Churchill Park in Lautoka, and fans can catch the live action on FBC Sports. This matchup not only highlights the competitive spirit of rugby but also embodies the camaraderie and passion that define the sport in both New Zealand and Fiji.