The Fiji Rugby Union has announced that the Skipper Cup semi-finals will take place in Suva next week, generating excitement among fans and players alike. Sale Sorovaki, the FRU General Manager of Operations and Development, highlighted the intensity and competitiveness displayed during the recently concluded quarter-finals, which featured unexpected upsets.
Over the weekend, the quarter-finals showcased tight contests, with notable victories for Tailevu over third-placed Lautoka, Nadi who upset second-placed Suva, and Malolo’s win against defending champions Nadroga at Lawaqa Park. Sorovaki expressed appreciation for the efforts of all teams, acknowledging their significant contributions to the competition.
He praised the elevated level of gameplay this season, particularly with the return of players from the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua, enhancing the competitive landscape of the Skipper Cup. “Our domestic competition is the primary avenue for developing elite players for national duty, and we are proud of how far we’ve come,” he remarked.
Looking ahead to the semi-finals, Sorovaki congratulated the top four teams and remains optimistic about the future of local rugby. The Skipper Cup also serves as an essential platform for nurturing talent, with performances from the U20 and ANZ Marama Championships echoing the spirited competition.
In the Under-20 quarter-finals, Naitasiri triumphed over Vatukoula 23-14, Fiji Pine Ba narrowly beat Macuata 20-15, and Nadi edged out Tailevu 18-15. Meanwhile, the Subrails ANZ Marama Championship saw Nasinu dominate Naitasiri with a scoreline of 67-22, Kadavu narrowly defeated Nadroga 32-29, Suva overcame Lautoka 38-32, and Namosi bested Nadi 35-17.
This season of rugby in Fiji has been marked by community support and a shared passion for the sport, as teams prepare for a thrilling finish with hopes of securing their place in history through the ongoing Skipper Cup.