FRU grateful to the families that have assisted Fijiana Drua with meals and other support - Sorovaki

Fiji Rugby Union’s Acting Chief Executive Officer, Sale Sorovaki has admitted that they have had some challenges regarding their financial processes which had a direct effect on the Rooster Chicken Fijiana Drua.

Sorovaki says these have been highlighted to them by the Australian Department for Foreign Affairs and Trade (DFAT) through Rugby Australia which monitors this financial assistance, and FRU is trying its utmost to improve on it.

Serious concerns have been raised about the welfare of the Fijiana Drua after a post went viral on social media claiming the players had been denied their meals at a restaurant.

A woman in a post on Facebook says she had to provide meals for the Fijiana Drua since last Friday afternoon.

The post also claimed that the FRU has allegedly been late in their payments to the restaurant in Brisbane.

Sorovaki says they are grateful to the Australian Government through the Vuvale Partnership which allows our Fijiana Drua Women’s Team to participate in the Super W Competition.

He also says the FRU is eternally grateful to the Fijian families that have assisted the Fijiana Drua with meals and other support, and for using their own hard-earned resources to help in the time of need towards our players and management. Sorovaki says the FRU may not be able to repay them, however, they are deeply grateful for the kind gesture and support to the fellow Fijians at a time when they needed it the most.

The Acting FRU CEO says moving forward, Fiji Rugby and Rugby Australia will continue to work hand in hand in ensuring that this issue is not repeated.

He adds with the World Rugby Commitment to player welfare, they will ensure that their players' welfare remains paramount in all that they do. Sorovaki also says FRU is responsible for looking over the general logistics of any team travelling overseas.

These include players allowance, accommodation, meals and any other associated costs.

Sorovaki also makes it clear that all contracted players have been paid up until now.

He has also congratulated the Head Coach, Inoke Male, his support team, management and players for always putting up a gallant performance despite the challenges, and qualifying for the Super W semifinal.

The Fijiana Drua finished fourth on the table and will face the Waratahs at 3.05pm in Sydney on Sunday 30th April 2023.