Wardens edge Police in tight Ratu Cakobau Bowl battle – FBC News
Source : FBC Sport / Facebook The Fiji Corrections Service side claimed bragging rights over their long-time rivals, the Fiji Police Force, after a hard-fought 16-14 victory to secure the ANC Ratu Cakobau Bowl at Albert Park in Suva this afternoon. In a physical contest that lived up to expectations, both sides traded tries and penalties throughout the match, keeping fans on edge until the final whistle. Jone Vakawaci and Josua Naivalu crossed the line for the Wardens, whose strong defense in the dying minutes proved the difference. Article continues after advertisement For Police, Ioane Ligatabu and Rusiate Matai found the try line, but it wasn’t enough to reclaim the trophy in a spirited battle that reflected the proud rivalry between the two disciplined forces. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
League’s eligibility rules will stay after Pacific rise – FBC News
The success of Samoa-Tonga league Tests means there won’t be a change to some contentious rules. (Dave Hunt/AAP PHOTOS) International Rugby League boss Troy Grant has ruled out any changes to eligibility rules, adamant the current setup has helped put the global game in its best ever state. One year out from the 2026 World Cup, international rugby league is riding on a high after more than 120,000 people turned out for Test matches globally last weekend. Next year’s tournament looms as the most anticipated in history, with the rise of Samoa and Tonga making them legitimate contenders and guaranteed crowd pullers. Article continues after advertisement But the growth of the Pacific has also come amid calls for change to eligibility rules, with the likes of Wayne Bennett leading discussions to stop players swapping between nations. Players are currently free to change the country they represent each year, with the exception of switching between tier-one nations Australia, New Zealand and England. That system allowed Payne Haas to become the latest to swap from Australia to Samoa this year, continuing a trend that began with Andrew Fifita and Jason Taumalolo’s moves to Tonga in 2017. Bennett has been vocal in his push for players to only represent one country throughout their career, with former Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga also backing the call. Others have pushed for players to only be able to represent one nation in each World Cup cycle, therefore allowing for change every four years. But IRL chairman Grant confirmed the rules would not be altered, with the current system allowing for the maximum possible star power on the field. “The way it is is obviously working. Why change something that is working?” Grant told AAP. “I like the rules as they are. “The responsibility we have as an organisation is to provide the best available eligible players to represent their nation. “And they can be eligible by birth, by heritage through the grandparent rule or by citizenship. They’re the rules. And if they qualify, they are eligible. “You want the best players available who are eligible for that country, to put a showcase on for the fans.” The response comes after Samoa coach Ben Gardiner warned against any changes last weekend, stating it would be “archaic” and take the international game back to its less competitive years. Samoa reached the last World Cup final in 2022, while Tonga beat out New Zealand last year to challenge Australia in the Pacific Cup decider. Tonga must beat the Kiwis by 17 or more at Eden Park on Sunday to reach a second straight final, after being thumped 34-6 by Samoa in front of 44,682 people at Suncorp Stadium last week. Regardless, Grant said suggestions Samoa and Tonga should be considered tier-one nations like Australia, New Zealand and England were off the mark. “The tiering is not an on-field tiering performance, it’s about off-field governance,” he said. “It is all about the domestic capabilities of their leagues. They are small countries, Tonga has a population smaller than Canberra. “There is only so much capacity for them to do things.” International eligibility rules are separate to State of Origin, where the NRL is considering loosening restrictions on Australian-raised England and New Zealand representatives featuring. Australia and New Zealand will kick off next year’s World Cup in Sydney on October 15, before a final at Suncorp Stadium in mid-November. The 10-team tournament will split sides between three groups in the preliminary stage. Australia and New Zealand will be in a four-team Group A, with the top two to qualify for the semi-finals. The teams across Groups B and C will play against the three sides in the opposing group, and effectively form one six-team ladder with the top two to progress to the final four. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Rodrigues-powered India stun Australia to reach World Cup final – FBC News
[Source: Reuters] India ended Australia’s title defence and booked their place in Sunday’s women’s World Cup final against South Africa after Jemimah Rodrigues smashed an unbeaten 127 to secure a sensational five-wicket victory in the second semi-final on Friday. Opting to bat, Australia racked up 338 all out with opener Phoebe Litchfield (119) providing them a flying start and Ellyse Perry and Ashleigh Gardner chipping in with fifties at the DY Patil Stadium in Navi Mumbai. When the teams returned, Rodrigues produced a majestic knock that included 14 fours to help India pull off the biggest successful chase in women’s ODI history with nine balls to spare. The outcome means a new ODI world champion side will emerge on Sunday. Article continues after advertisement “It just feels like a dream and it’s not sunk in yet,” player-of-the-match Rodrigues, who was in tears after their victory, said after anchoring India’s nervy chase. Seven-time champions Australia had accomplished a record chase in a 661-run humdinger against India in the league phase of the tournament and they racked up another big total against the same opponents after electing to bat in the rematch. Australia captain Alyssa Healy got an early reprieve when India counterpart Harmanpreet Kaur spilled a catch at mid-off but the batter could not capitalise on it and dragged the ball onto her stumps to depart for five. Litchfield raced to a 77-ball century during a 155-run stand with Perry that took Australia to 159-1 at the halfway stage of their innings. Litchfield was on 102 when India wicketkeeper Richa Ghosh spilled a catch and the batter hit spinner Deepti Sharma for back-to-back sixes to rub salt in India’s wound. Her 93-ball knock, which included three sixes and 17 fours, came to an end when she attempted a cheeky scoop shot against Amanjot Kaur and lost her middle stump. India claimed quick wickets to apply the brakes but Gardner (63) took Australia past the 300-mark before they were all out with one delivery left in their innings. Shafali Verma (10), replacing India’s injured in-form opener Pratika Rawal, could not impress on her return but their chase was truly jolted when Smriti Mandhana, their leading scorer in the tournament, fell after a run-a-ball 24. A 167-run stand between Rodrigues and Harmanpreet (89) put India’s chase back on track. Annabel Sutherland denied Harmanpreet a hundred but Rodrigues was spilled when the batter was on 82 and again on 106, which proved costly in the end. “We did not finish with the bat well, did not bowl that great, dropped chances in the field,” Healy rued. “We can take something out of that, but ultimately outdone in the end.” Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Naitasiri looks to fan power and smart picks for tomorrow’s final – FBC News
With tomorrow’s Skipper Cup grand final looming, the Highlanders know that victory will come down to a sharp player selection and the backing of their loyal red and black army. Naitasiri Rugby is set to turn passion into points as they chase their first Skipper Cup title in 15 years. Coach Timoci Tinaviti says getting the right combination on the field will be key for the team hungriest for the trophy. Article continues after advertisement “We respect our opponents and hold them in high regard. They’ve produced a handful of upsets this season. In no way are we underestimating Malolo, especially after the first round of the Skipper Cup. But this Saturday, whoever picks their trump right will not lose.” Both Naitasiri’s senior and Under-20 sides will rely on the energy of their supporters, who have been a constant through the grind of pre-season training and every hurdle along the way. Tinaviti says the Highlanders’ fans are more than just spectators—they are a driving force behind the team. “It’s nothing new for Naitasiri to have a strong fan base, our fans go with us wherever we have games. We appreciate the fact that they came with us to Ba and when we went to Labasa they were there too. This week we want and look forward to that same at the stadium. The louder our supporters cheer us on the better it will be for the team on the field as it is our final game and we want to take the Skipper Cup trophy to Naitasiri when the dust settles in Suva on Saturday.” As the Highlanders gear up for the final whistle, the blend of tactical acumen and unwavering fan support could be the edge that turns 15 years of Skipper Cup heartache into history-making glory. They meet Malolo at 3pm tomorrow at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. You can watch the LIVE coverage on FBC 2. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Young Nanovu ready for big test against Indian opponent – FBC News
Laite Nanovu Nineteen-year-old Laite Nanovu will step into the ring this Saturday for what is expected to be one of the toughest bouts of her young career when she faces India’s Aarti Hoodha in the lightweight division of the Stratum Construction Zeg Kings Boxing Promotion at the Vodafone Arena in Suva. Nanovu, who has already fought three professional and five amateur bouts, knows she will be up against a strong and experienced opponent. Hoodha, a seasoned Indian fighter with an impressive record at state and national level, is known for her aggressive style and physical strength; qualities that will test the Fijian boxer’s skill and composure. Article continues after advertisement Despite the challenge, Nanovu remains calm and focused. She says her previous fights have taught her valuable lessons about patience, discipline, and technique, and she plans to use that experience to her advantage on fight night. Trained by her uncle and mentor Osea Nanovu, the young boxer began her journey in 2020 and has been steadily improving under his guidance. While Nanovu admits she sees boxing as a hobby rather than a full-time career, she is determined to give her best performance in front of her home crowd. With her family set to be ringside cheering her on, the Suva teenager hopes to deliver a strong showing against her formidable opponent from India. Fans can catch all the action live on FBC’s online platform www.viti.plus for $99 FJD. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Sports and Agriculture join forces to boost grassroots growth – FBC News
In a bold move to link community sports with economic growth, the Fiji Sports Council and the Agricultural Marketing Authority have teamed up to strengthen grassroots development through 7s rugby and volleyball. The partnership, sealed through a Memorandum of Understanding, will see both organisations collaborate on the Fiji Sports Council Grassroots Rugby 7s and Volleyball Development Events in 2026 an initiative designed to promote healthy living, youth empowerment and rural enterprise. Under the agreement, sports events will also serve as marketplaces, giving farmers, vendors and small business owners a chance to showcase their produce and products while communities come together to celebrate local sporting talent. Article continues after advertisement Fiji Sports Council chief executive Gilbert Vakalalabure says the partnership represents a strategic alignment of two sectors essential to nation-building. “This collaboration brings together two strong pillars of national identity sports and agriculture. Both play a crucial role in empowering youth and promoting sustainable living.” AMA Executive chair Jone Sovalawa says the partnership would have a lasting impact across communities. “The AMA is proud to partner with the Fiji Sports Council in an initiative that supports farmers, vendors, and small business owners while promoting unity and national pride.” Both organisations believe the partnership will drive national development by combining the power of sport to inspire with agriculture’s role in sustaining livelihoods — building stronger, healthier and more resilient Fijian communities. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Nadi U20 ready for whatever comes their way – FBC News
source: Nadi Rugby Union/ Facebook As Nadi prepares to face Naitasiri in the Skipper Cup Under-20 final this weekend, the team knows there will be no room for error if they want to bring the title back to the western division. Captain Samuela Ravunuavale and his side understand that Naitasiri are no strangers to playing in the final, but they are ready to go toe-to-toe with their experienced opponents. “We’ve been preparing well now as we know that Naitasiri has reached the final a few times now. A few years now we haven’t been reaching the final, just the semi and quarters-final. We know Naitasiri will want to win the title this year, but we’ve been preparing well too.” Article continues after advertisement Ravanuavale knows Naitasiri will show no mercy this weekend, but they are ready to handle whatever comes their way. The u20 final will be held on Saturday at 1pm at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva and will air LIVE on FBC 2. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Malolo out to make Skipper Cup dream a reality – FBC News
[file photo] With nothing to lose this weekend, Malolo will be going all out against Naitasiri when they battle it out for the Skipper Cup title. Malolo has defied all odds stacked against them, ousting powerhouse Nadroga in the quarters and Nadi in the semi-finals. Captain Esala Nalobo says while they respect Naitasiri, they are focused on making their dream a reality. Article continues after advertisement “Naitasiri is not a new team, this is their field…the Skipper Cup and Farebrother. We will always look up to them and always accord them the respect they deserve as a champion team but that won’t stop us from playing our best this Saturday.” He thanked their supporters for standing by the team throughout the season, and is calling out to them to once more come out in numbers this weekend during the final. The Skipper Cup final, along with the under-20 and Marama Cup final will be held at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva on Saturday, where it be will broadcast Live on FBC Two. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Liverpool knocked out of League Cup by Crystal Palace – FBC News
Source: Reuters Second-string Liverpool were thumped 3-0 by Crystal Palace as Ismaila Sarr struck twice for the visitors in the League Cup on Wednesday, booking the London side’s spot in the quarter-finals and piling more misery on Arne Slot’s struggling side. Holders Newcastle United dispatched Tottenham Hotspur 2-0, Arsenal beat Brighton & Hove Albion 2-0, Manchester City came back to down second-tier Swansea City 3-1 and Chelsea edged past Wolverhampton Wanderers 4-3 in other fourth-round ties. Slot rested most of his regular starters — as did the other major Premier League clubs — leaving Liverpool to suffer their sixth loss in seven games across all competitions. Article continues after advertisement The match at Anfield was fairly even before Sarr scored in the 41st minute when Liverpool defender Joe Gomez attempted to clear the ball but teed it up instead for the Senegalese player, who unleashed a blistering shot past keeper Freddie Woodman. In a torrential downpour that matched the Reds fans’ mood, Sarr doubled Palace’s lead seconds before the break when he latched onto a lovely reverse pass from Yeremy Pino. Liverpool were reduced to 10 men when Amara Nallo was sent off in the 79th minute for taking down Justin Devenny, his second red card in two senior appearances. Pino added to Liverpool’s misery with the visitors’ third goal in the 88th minute. “It’s not of Liverpool standards to lose six out of seven,” Slot told Sky Sports.Asked if Saturday’s Premier League game at home to Aston Villa was a must-win, Slot said: “Every Liverpool game is a must-win.” The night marked the first time Liverpool had lost a domestic cup match at Anfield by three goals without scoring since February 1934 in a 3-0 defeat by Bolton in the FA Cup. It was also the league champions’ third loss to Palace this season. “I don’t know how often this happens when you play the champions three times within three months, and you win three times. So credit to the players,” said Palace boss Oliver Glasner. HOLDERS NEWCASTLE DOWN SPURS Newcastle reached the last eight thanks to goals from Fabian Schar in the first half and Nick Woltemade in the second to oust Spurs in an electric atmosphere at St James’ Park. “Really pleased, I think when you make the (eight) changes that we did, you hope to see a performance that’s in line with our identity and our expectations, and I thought we got both today,” said Newcastle manager Eddie Howe. “It’s most important the attitude is right from minute one and there’s that will to win that you need, and we had.” Arsenal’s 18-year-old Ethan Nwaneri broke the deadlock in the 57th against Brighton at the Emirates when he latched onto a pass from Myles Lewis-Skelly and fired into the bottom corner. Bukayo Saka doubled the Gunners’ lead in the 76th minute when he pounced on the rebound from a Jason Steele save. “A very special evening for obvious reasons,” Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta said. “We made 10 changes, we played players that have never played together. “Two debuts for Max (Dowman, who is 15) and Andre (Harriman-Annous, 17). That feeling is unique.” Championship side Swansea stunned Pep Guardiola’s City — who are 28 places above them in England’s football pyramid — when Goncalo Franco struck in the 12th minute. But Jeremy Doku equalised with a deflected effort just before halftime, Omar Marmoush put City ahead in the 77th when he broke free from a defender and fired into the roof of the net and Rayan Cherki wrapped up the win with a goal in added time. Chelsea looked poised to thrash Wolves as goals from Andrey Santos, Tyrique George and Estevao gave them a 3-0 lead at Molineux. But the hosts showed some life late on with a goal from David Moller Wolfe after Tolu Arokodare had got one back. Chelsea’s Liam Delap was sent off in the 86th but his teammate Jamie Gittens made it 4-2 three minutes later before Moller Wolfe got his second of the night in added time. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.
Bulikula return home to a heroes welcome – FBC News
Source: FNRL The Fiji Women’s Rugby League team, Bulikula, received a hero’s welcome at Nadi International Airport early this morning after their historic qualification for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup in Canada. Minister for Youth and Sports Jese Saukuru officially welcomed the team on behalf of the Coalition Government, congratulating the players for making history as the first-ever Fijian women’s rugby league side to qualify for the World Cup. Their remarkable achievement marks a new chapter for women’s rugby league in Fiji, showcasing the growing strength of the sport and inspiring young girls across the nation to pursue their dreams with confidence and determination. Article continues after advertisement Youth and Sports Minister pictured with members of the Fiji Bulikula team [Source: Ministry of Youth and Sports] The Fiji Bulikula’s success is a proud moment for the country and a reward for the dedication and hard work of the players, coaches, management, families, supporters and the FNRL community. Bulikula created history after thrashing Nigeria 62-4 on Monday to book their world cup spot. New Zealand, Australia, Samoa, Papua New Guinea, France, Fiji, Wales, and England are now confirmed for the World Cup. The Women’s Rugby League World Cup will be held in Australia next year. Stream the best of Fiji on VITI+. Anytime. Anywhere.