The Nadi-based West Fiji Dolphins team will make their debut at the Vodafone Nines 2018 rugby league tournament at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka on Saturday.

The Dolphins are supported by the Petero Civoniceva Foundation.

Foundation co-founder Chris Tomlinson said, “This would be the first time the West Fiji Dolphins senior team would be playing together at the Nines tournament,

“We have been fortunate to have been able to recruit some fantastic rugby league players for the 2018 season.”

“We have been training since November so we are keen to get out there this weekend and put into practice what we have been learning.”

Tomlinson said some players have been playing rugby union.

“Others have been in the Fiji National Rugby League (FNRL) system for a number of years and others are just embarking on their career in rugby league,”he said.

“We haven’t decided on a captain for 2018 just yet and during the tournament this weekend it will be interesting to see who displays the necessary leadership qualities.”

The side has been grouped alongside Waidroka Nadruku Cherry Pickers and Nausori Bulldogs.

“We know it will be a very tough pool. The whole tournament will be extremely competitive,” he added.

“It’s a great opportunity for all the FNRL clubs to get together and showcase the very best of rugby league and we are grateful to the FNRL and to Vodafone for organizing the event.”

Edited by Osea Bola

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