The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua have announced a historic initiative aimed at strengthening ties with local rugby communities by hosting a pre-season trial match against a Provincial Select XV featuring top players from Fiji’s provincial circuits. Scheduled for Friday, February 6, 2026, at Churchill Park in Lautoka, this marks the first time the Drua will compete against a team composed entirely of homegrown talent.
The concept was introduced by Head Coach Glen Jackson during the Fiji Rugby Union Symposium held on August 25, 2025. Jackson views this match as a vital step in promoting local talent and integrating the Drua more closely into the national rugby framework.
Naca Cawanibuka, General Manager for High Performance at Fiji Rugby, highlighted the significance of this collaboration between the Drua and Fiji Rugby, stressing the emphasis on developing local players. Jackson also expressed his excitement, describing the event as a long-awaited dream coming to fruition. “It’s been a long time coming, and I’m grateful to Fiji Rugby for getting on board with this idea,” he remarked. “Fiji versus Fiji presents a unique challenge, but it’s the perfect preparation ahead of facing Moana Pasifika in our Super Rugby season opener. I hope the Lautoka and Western community comes out in large numbers for what is set to be a fantastic occasion.”
This pre-season match not only serves as preparation for the Drua’s participation in the Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season but also allows fans to witness an exciting clash between elite professional players and grassroots talent. More details regarding ticket prices and match-day logistics will be announced in the upcoming months, inviting fans to engage with local rugby in a fresh and dynamic way.
The Drua’s initiative is part of a larger effort to infuse local elements into their preparations. Jackson has expressed a desire for all pre-season matches to take place in Fiji, further solidifying the connection between the Drua and the country’s provincial teams. The proposed match against the Provincial Select XV is viewed as a crucial moment in fostering community spirit and nurturing pathways for aspiring rugby players in Fiji.
As the Drua gear up for their fourth season in the Super Rugby Pacific, this match marks a promising and exciting development, offering a thrilling spectacle for fans and serving as a robust test for players preparing for the competitive season ahead. This initiative exemplifies the commitment to nurturing local rugby talent while enhancing community engagement, fostering optimism for the future of the sport in Fiji.