In a groundbreaking shift in the concept of home-field advantage, the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) has unveiled an innovative schedule for the inaugural Nations Championship, set to unfold in July. The FIJI Water Flying Fijians will face off against notable rugby nations Wales, England, and Scotland in a historic series taking place entirely in the Northern Hemisphere.
Despite these matches being termed “home” games for Fiji, the Flying Fijians will display their renowned style of play directly at the venues of their rival teams. This unique arrangement allows them to engage fans and opponents alike at prestigious stadiums across the UK, showcasing their vibrant and entertaining rugby prowess right at the front doors of their competitors.
Fiji’s exciting journey will kick off on July 4, when they take on Wales at Cardiff City Stadium. This will be followed by a much-anticipated match against England at Hill Dickinson Stadium on July 11. The series will culminate with a showdown against Scotland at the iconic Murrayfield Stadium on July 18.
John Sanday, chairman of the Fiji Rugby Board, emphasized the importance of these matches in rewriting the narrative for the Flying Fijians. He expressed excitement for the expected turnout at Cardiff, which can accommodate 32,500 spectators. According to Sanday, the clash with England is particularly significant as it represents a unique home-ground experience for Fiji at Hill Dickinson Stadium, and the upcoming contest with Scotland holds historical importance given their long-standing competitive rivalry.
The FRU views these fixtures as vital for the team’s developmental journey, presenting an invaluable opportunity for the Flying Fijians to gather experience against elite rivals in high-stakes scenarios. This ambitious schedule underlines Fiji’s commitment to excelling on the world stage while embodying the true spirit of rugby, providing a platform for showcasing their talents and earning admiration from rugby fans around the globe.