FRU congratulates Fijiana Drua for claiming the semifinal spot and addresses recent claims on social media.

The Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) would like to congratulate Rooster Chicken Fijiana Drua for qualifying for the Super W semifinal.

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

FRU Acting Chief Executive Officer, Mr. Sale Sorovaki has congratulated the Head Coach, Inoke Male, his support team, management and players for always putting up a gallant performance despite the challenges.

He said “I just want to say Vinaka Vakalevu to everyone involved and you have our full support for the Fijiana Drua to bounce back, beat Waratahs, and reach the final again this year.”

Sorovaki said he would also like to address the recent social media post regarding player allowance and teams meal.

FRU does enjoy a huge fan base globally and wherever our teams participate these fans always turn out in numbers and support the players and team as a whole in any way possible. We thank you for this continued support of our teams.

“FRU is responsible for looking over the general logistics of any team traveling overseas. These include players allowance, accommodation, meals and any other associated costs.”

Sorovaki said “We would like to make it clear that all contracted players have been paid up until now.”

Sorovaki further added “I admit that we have had some challenges regarding our financial processes which had a direct effect on the Fijiana Drua. These have been highlighted to us by DFAT through Rugby Australia which monitors this financial assistance, and FRU is trying its utmost to improve on it.

We are grateful to the Australian Government through the Vuvale Partnership which allows our Fijiana Drua Womens Team to participate in the Super W Competition.”

“To the Fijian families that have assisted the Fijiana Drua with meals and other support, FRU is eternally grateful to you for using your own hard-earned resources to help in the time of need towards our ladies and management. 
We may not be able to repay you, however, we are deeply grateful for your kind gesture and support to our fellow Fijians at a time when they needed it the most. We pray that God’s blessings and provisions be upon each family who helped.

Moving forward, Fiji Rugby and Rugby Australia will continue to work hand in hand in ensuring that this issue is not repeated” said Sorovaki.

He added “As with World Rugby Commitment to “Player Welfare,” we will ensure that our players’ welfare remains paramount in all that we do.”