SWIRE Shipping Fijian Drua co-captain and lock Temo Mayanavanua is gearing up for an exhilarating match against the Skipper Select XV, as they compete for the prestigious Sun Bell Trophy this Friday. Mayanavanua, who has played in various international leagues, acknowledged the different paces and physical demands of each competition, notably highlighting the competitive nature of France’s Top 14, the quick rhythm of the English Premiership, and the high speed of Super Rugby.
Having recently returned to the fast-paced environment of Super Rugby, Mayanavanua is excited about the upcoming showdown and is dedicated to enhancing his awareness on the field to maintain his position in the team. He recognizes the skill and ambition of the Skipper Select XV players, stating, “I know there will be players in the Skipper Select who are really talented and hungry to be part of this set-up, and I wish them all the best.” He emphasized that this match not only serves as a competitive event but also as an important opportunity to showcase local talent, underscoring the significance of the Skipper Cup in fostering players and opening up avenues for growth.
Fans can anticipate a thrilling display of Fijian rugby flair from both sides, characterized by powerful hits and skillful offloads. The eagerly awaited match is set to take place at Churchill Park in Lautoka, with kick-off scheduled for 4 PM.
In a significant development for the Fijian Drua, Super Rugby Pacific’s global coverage has significantly expanded, now reaching millions of households across the world. Shane Hussein, Head of Commercial and Marketing for the Fijian Drua, remarked on the increased visibility of the tournament, stating that it not only benefits the sport but also positively impacts tourism in Fiji. “It is great to see this growth,” Hussein noted, expressing appreciation for the global reach of Super Rugby Pacific.
Furthermore, the Fijian Drua has secured an extended broadcast partnership with Fiji Broadcasting Corporation (FBC), ensuring that fans can continue to watch all Swire Shipping Fijian Drua matches free-to-air on FBC Sports HD for the next three seasons. Drua chief executive Jeff Miller welcomed the return of Veremi Vakatawa, commending the former international’s experienced presence and leadership on the field.
With anticipation building for the Drua’s final trial match against a provincial select team, scheduled for this Friday at 4 PM, the team is also preparing for their first Super Rugby encounter against Moana Pasifika next week. The developments highlight a promising future for Fijian rugby as it continues to elevate both local athletes and the sport on a global scale.