The Fiji Airways Drua’s win in the Minor Premiership of the NRC has opened up opportunities for another Pacific Island nation to highly likely participate in the competition from next year.
Rugby Australia Union high‑performance General Manger Ben Whitaker confirmed that they were in early talks with World Rugby about adding either Tonga or Samoa to the NRC.
The confirmation came after Drua’s successes in the third tier competition to claim a historic minor premiership just two years after entering the competition.
Meanwhile, FRU General Manager Geoff Webster stated that the NRC is a missing link towards talent development.
If the Drua win their semifinal game they will be hosting the NRC final.
The Drua will host the Canberra Vikings in their NRC semifinal at Churchill Park at 3pm Saturday.
In the second semifinal, Western Force will take on Queensland Country at 5pm Sunday.
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