Fijivillage
NEWS SPORTS IN DEPTH
21 April, 2026, 10:05 pm
Central - 23°C Clouds
IN DEPTH
21 April, 2026, 10:05 pm Central - 23°C Clouds

Fijiana announce starting XV for final rugby World Cup match against Wales

Fijiana announce starting XV for final rugby World Cup match against Wales

By Mikaele Liga
05/09/2025
Photo: Fiji Rugby

A strong blend of seasoned experience and emerging talent has been named to take on Wales tomorrow, with Fiji determined to leave a lasting mark on the tournament.

The Fijiana team, under the guidance of Head Coach Ioan Cunningham, has announced its lineup for the final match of the Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025 against Wales.

Coach Cunningham has made several strategic adjustments to the squad following the team’s impressive performance against Scotland.

Despite challenges with injuries and suspensions, he expressed full confidence in the depth and readiness of his players.

Cunningham says there are a few forced changes due to injury and suspension, but that’s why they have a strong squad, and they back every player who steps onto the field.

Karalaini Naisewa starts at loosehead prop, alongside Keleni Marawa at hooker and Vika Matarugu at tighthead. Asinate Serevi starts in the lock position, and the back five remains largely unchanged. Cunningham praised Serevi for training exceptionally well and said they are excited to see her take the field.

He adds that Repeka Tove will start on the right wing, with Kolora Lomani coming in on the left.

Reflecting on her leadership role, Serevi says she plans to bring physicality, create space, support her teammates—especially during the tiring moments—and provide the energy the team needs for their final match. She adds that leading by example is something she has always naturally done and that she will bring the same heart, fight, and unity into the final match against Wales.

Serevi emphasized that this is their final chance to show the world what they are made of, inspire the next generation of Fijiana players, and ensure the team is remembered for their fighting spirit.

1. Karalaini Naisewa 2. Keleni Marawa 3. Vika Matarugu 4. Jade Coates 5. Asinate Serevi 6. Nunia Daunimoala 7. Alfreda Fisher (captain) 8. Manuqalo Komaitai 9. Setaita Railumu 10. Salanieta Kinita 11. Kolora Lomani 12. Josifini Neihamu 13. Verenaisi Ditavutu 14. Repeka Tove 15. Litiana Vueti

Reserves: 16. Selai Naliva 17. Carletta Yee 18. Tiana Robanakdavu 19. Mereoni Nakesa 20. Sulita Waisega 21. Repeka Mata 22. Kelerayani Luvu 23. Salote Nailolo

Meanwhile, the Fijiana will play Wales at 1.45am Sunday at Sandy Park in their last pool game.

FNRL
FEATURE NEWS
Police assisted by RFMF officials to source statements and information after Vakarisi's death
Police investigators from the Criminal Investigations Department have been assisted by officials from the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, with rega...
4 hours ago
LATEST NEWS
Heavy Rain Alert for Fiji Group, Vunaniu Flats in Serua flooded
A Heavy Rain Alert remains in force for the entire Fiji Group.The Nadi Weather Office says a weak trough of low pressure with associated cloud, ...
3 hours ago

Police seek constitutional amendments for use of force, warrantless searches and armouries
The Fiji Police Force is proposing the strengthening of police independence in the Constitution by ensuring the Commissioner is operationally ...
5 hours ago

TFL's former Manager Treasury and Finance Controller agree that payments made to Kaba's company were legitimate
Former Manager Treasury for Telecom Fiji Limited, Samuel Brown and Financial Controller, Ashika Nandani agree that $766,327.22 was a legitimate ...
5 hours ago

Police yet to confirm details of alleged offence of Samabula officers
Police are yet to confirm the details of the alleged offence of the Samabula Police Station officers accused of corruption and abuse of office in ...
5 hours ago

Police have cleared the Tamavua-i-Wai Bridge after vehicle accident
Police have cleared the Tamavua-i-Wai Bridge, and traffic has returned to normal following an accident involving two vehicles. There were no ...
7 hours ago



Stay tuned for the latest news on our radio stations

CFL radio frequencies
IN DEPTH
Drug lord Jone Vakarisi dies in military custody as investigations find unauthorised weapons outside RFMF inventory
Druglord, Jone Vakarisi has died in military custoday, 3 other associates have been released after questioning, 1 RFMF personnel remains in military ...
12 hours ago

Citizens to oppose proposed TNG Waste-to-Energy incinerator in Saweni, Vuda
Serious concerns are being raised regarding a proposed Australian company's TNG Waste-to-Energy incinerator in Saweni, Vuda, and a group of concerned ...
12 hours ago

Ratu Epeli Nailatikau's State Funeral
Ratu Epeli was a highly respected Fijian chief and a people’s President as many would remember him on many occasions walking on the streets of Suva ...
5 days ago

TOP