MLB restricts pitch bets after players charged in rigging scheme – FBC News
Source: Reuters Major League Baseball and its sportsbook partners moved to limit pitch-level wagering on Monday, a day after two players for the Cleveland Guardians were charged in a scheme to rig bets on pitches during games. Pitchers Luis Ortiz and Emmanuel Clase allegedly agreed in advance to throw balls rather than strikes for specific pitches in exchange for bribes to rig proposition bets, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Ba and Rewa presidents share a moment beyond the pitch – FBC News
[ Source: Fiji Football Association / Facebook ] In a heartwarming show of sportsmanship, Ba Football Association president Praneel Dayal paid a special visit to Rewa FA president Nazeel Buksh today, presenting him with a framed photo from the FMF Inter-District Championship 2025 final at Govind Park. The framed photo, marked “IDC 2025,” captured the two presidents smiling together before the championship decider, a moment that now symbolizes mutual respect and friendship between the two football powerhouses. Despite Ba’s loss to Rewa in the final, Dayal says the gesture was about celebrating the spirit of football rather than the outcome of the match. Article continues after advertisement “Football is more than just competition, it’s about unity and respect. This photo reminds us of that spirit.” Buksh, who was moved by the gesture, says it reflected the shared commitment both administrators have toward elevating the sport in Fiji. “We may be rivals on the pitch, but we share the same passion for growing the game. I’m honoured by this thoughtful gift from Praneel and the Ba FA family.” The exchange between the two leaders highlighted the enduring camaraderie that defines Fiji football where rivalry ends when the final whistle blows. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Auvary selects final squad for MSG Cup – FBC News
File Photo Fiji Bula Boys head coach Stephane Auvray has selected his 20-member squad to represent the country at the Melanesian Spearhead Group Prime Minister’s Cup 2025 in Papua New Guinea next week. Auvray said the selection reflects a long-term strategy aimed at building depth and consistency across both the national and club levels. “We prioritized long-term results over immediate ones. We chose an approach that would give our Fiji-based players a chance to showcase themselves in the next two months and allow the coaching staff to identify our best talents.” Article continues after advertisement He added that both the MSG Prime Minister’s Cup and the upcoming Pacific Cup in New Zealand will serve as key scouting platforms for the national team and Bula FC. The tournament in Papua New Guinea will provide a valuable opportunity for emerging players to gain international experience and for the coaching team to assess Fiji’s next generation of football talent. The Bula Boys start their campaign against host Papua New Guinea on Saturday before taking on Vanuatu on Monday. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Derenalagi facing lengthy injury layoff – FBC News
File Photo Swire Shipping Fijian Drua head coach Glen Jackson has confirmed that former captain Meli Derenalagi will be sidelined for an extended period after undergoing a second knee reconstruction. Jackson said Derenalagi recently had another surgery on his knee and is expected to be out for around nine months as he continues his recovery. “Meli had another surgery on his knee, so he’s had two knee reconstructions essentially. He’s in the building with us and it’s our goal to get him back on the field as fast as we can, but he is unfortunately out for nine months. We’ll do as much as we can to get him back to full fitness and reassess from there.” Article continues after advertisement Despite being off contract at the end of the year, Jackson assured that the Drua will continue to support the inspirational forward through his rehabilitation. “What we do in this club is that Meli’s getting looked after. He’s off contract, I think, in January or December, but that certainly doesn’t mean we won’t look after him and try to get him back on the field.” Derenalagi, a former Olympic gold medalist with the Fiji 7s team, has been a key figure for the Drua since their debut Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season in 2022. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Army League balances demanding schedule ahead of Sukuna Bowl – FBC News
[Source: RFMF] As the nation paused to mark Remembrance Day, the Republic of Fiji Military Forces Rugby League side also took a moment to reflect, not just on the fallen heroes but on their own battle ahead, defending the Sukuna Bowl Rugby League title. For Rugby League logistics officer Iliesa Tuiloma, the occasion serves as a powerful reminder of the values they carry into every contest, discipline, sacrifice and unity. “It hasn’t been easy. Some players have been called away for overseas studies or Middle East tours, and with military operations always ongoing, we have to adapt and keep the team running no matter what.” Article continues after advertisement The Army side has held the Sukuna Bowl Rugby League Cup for the past three consecutive years, and preparations for a fourth defence have tested their resilience more than ever. With players scattered across postings and deployments, training sessions have been built around operational schedules rather than comfort. Tuiloma says the team has not even gone into full camp yet, a clear sign of just how demanding the military calendar has become. “We are working closely as management and senior officers to pull the boys together in time for camp.” Despite the challenges, the support from families, friends and colleagues both in Fiji and abroad continues to drive the team forward. For Tuiloma and his men, the Sukuna Bowl is not just about rugby league glory. It is a reflection of service, loyalty and the same spirit of remembrance that binds them all on and off the field. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Police determined to defend football title – FBC News
While a lot is on the line for the Fiji Police Force, they are adamant to hold their ground and face whatever comes their way as the Sukuna Bowl competition kick starts next week. Coming in as defending champions for soccer, the force in focused on maintaining their title again this year. However, they know their opponent, the Republic of Fiji Military Forces, will be out looking for their downfall. Article continues after advertisement Former national rep and police player Simione Tamanisau says preparation has been coming along well for the team, and they are eager for another title defense. “We have been preparing well, the team just crossed over to Labasa, and we do hope that come Thursday, we are fully prepared to defend our title.” The side already gathered together in camp at Labasa, and will take on Army at 11am next Thursday at Subrail Park. You can catch the action Live on FBC Sports. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Jackson confirms Naqiri still in Drua’s long-term plans – FBC News
File Photo Swire Shipping Fijian Drua head coach Glen Jackson has assured fans that promising development player Jone Naqiri remains firmly in the club’s future plans, despite not being included in the main 2026 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific squad. Jackson said the coaching staff were pleased with the balance and strength of the final 39-man squad, which includes four players promoted from the Drua Development program. “We are very, very happy with our team. Jone, as we’ve talked about before, four have come through the development. Not everyone can always come out of the development. It doesn’t mean we’re not looking at Jone or that he’ll never play for the Drua.” Article continues after advertisement He acknowledged the challenge of selection in a country rich with rugby talent, saying that competition for spots was fierce. “When you can only select what you can, 39 players, and as we all know, this is a fantastic country of depth and talent. It’s not easy in professional sport, playing rugby and making selections.” The Drua mentor emphasized that Naqiri’s omission was not the end of his journey with the club. “Jone’s representation with the Drua is not gone. He’s still very much part of our plans.” Naqiri was widely tipped to make the main squad after strong performances in the Drua development program and local competitions, and remains one of the country’s most promising young forwards. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
FMF Futsal Muslim IDC 2025 officially launched today – FBC News
The FMF Futsal Muslim IDC 2025 was officially launched today, marking the beginning of another exciting chapter for the Fiji Muslim Sports Association’s annual futsal competition. The tournament, proudly sponsored by Flour Mills of Fiji (FMF) and supported by Dayals Sawmillers Ltd and Safety Tyres and Rentals, will take place from November 14th to 16th, 2025. This year’s competition promises intense futsal action as top district teams from across Fiji battle for supremacy in the indoor format of the beautiful game. The official pool draws revealed three competitive groups in the Premier Division: Group A: Nadi, Sigatoka, Rewa, Maro Group B: Ba, Maigania, Nasinu, Suva Group C: Makoi, Navua, Valelevu, Drasa The draw was conducted during the official launch event attended by representatives of FMF, FFA CEO, FMSA officials, and team delegates. The association emphasized its commitment to promoting unity, discipline, and sportsmanship within the Muslim football community through the growing popularity of futsal. FMSA officials also acknowledged FMF and supporting sponsors for their partnership in uplifting grassroots football in Fiji. The tournament will not only showcase high-level competition but also serve as a platform for young talents to be identified for national representation. With only a few days remaining until kick-off, excitement is building among players and fans alike as they prepare for three days of thrilling futsal in Suva. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Ikanivere urges team to lift after painful England loss – FBC News
[Source: Fiji Rugby/Facebook] FIJI Water Flying Fijians captain Tevita Ikanivere says their 38–18 loss to England at Twickenham was a hard lesson in maintaining composure under pressure. After a competitive first-half performance, Fiji struggled to keep pace as England’s discipline, control, and depth turned the tide in the second spell. Ikanivere admits the late lapses in discipline proved costly and took away the momentum they had built early on. Article continues after advertisement “Not the result we wanted, quite disappointed with ourselves — the discipline we had towards the end, not only the yellow cards but our decision making, that let us down. I think we can learn from that and will be better before we meet France.” The Fiji captain says the side will focus on improving execution and decision-making as they continue their Northern Tour against Tier One nations. He adds that the team remains motivated to bounce back stronger when they face France this Sunday at 8.40am, with the delayed coverage on FBC Sports at 8pm next Monday. Meanwhile, fans can catch the delayed coverage of the England match tonight at 8 on FBC Sports. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Lomani nears full recovery – FBC News
Frank Lomani Swire Shipping Fijian Drua halfback Frank Lomani is nearing a full return to training following shoulder surgery earlier this year. Head coach Glen Jackson confirmed that the influential playmaker, who sustained the injury against the Crusaders in April, is making steady progress and will not be rushed back into competition ahead of the 2026 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific season. “Frank’s great, he’s back. We’re just progressing slowly with the shoulder surgery, so Frank is back in nearly full training. We’ve obviously got a long time before we play Moana, so we don’t need to rush Frank.” Article continues after advertisement Jackson revealed that Lomani was close to returning for the Flying Fijians’ November Tests but, after discussions with Flying Fijians head coach Mick Byrne, the decision was made to prioritise the player’s long-term health and performance. “Frank was reasonably close to being back for the Flying Fijians team. We had a really good talk with Coach Mick and myself about what’s best for Frank, what’s best for the Drua, and what’s best for Fiji Rugby. At the moment, that’s Frank just getting back to full fitness and ready to play rugby.” Lomani’s return will be a major boost for the Drua, who are looking to build on their strong 2025 campaign. His experience, leadership, and playmaking ability will once again be central to the team’s ambitions when they open their 2026 season against Moana Pasifika. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.