Fiji National Rugby League (FNRL) has started preparation for the 2021 Rugby League World Cup.

This was the statement by FNRL chief executive officer Timoci Naleba during the 2018 Vodafone Cup competition launched at FNRL office, yesterday.

Naleba said he wants to see more local players representing Fiji come 2021

“We are going to plan for a new year and not only are  we going to see the result of each year, we are going to reflect and do a benchmark on what we are going to achieve come 2021,” Naleba said.

“I acknowledge the hard work by each club members since 2016 and not forgetting the input of those who have contributed towards rugby league since 1992.

“We will not forget their contribution.

“Development of youth in Fiji has been effectively tremendous and we have seen results of it.

“These youths have signed contracts to play for clubs in Australia and also in England.”

Naleba expects quality performances at the zonal competition this year.

“We are still are going to have our seven zone competition and we have a total of 43 clubs compared to 39 last year,” he said.

“We do not only want quantity but we want quality in our competition.”

Vodafone Fiji gives $20k

Vodafone Fiji donated a cheque of $20,000 for the 2018 Vodafone Cup competition.

Naleba acknowledged the contribution towards the growth of rugby league in Fiji.

“I would like to thank Vodafone Fiji for their sponsorship and support towards the development of rugby league in the nation,” he said.

“They have been with rugby league since 2005 and have renewed their sponsorship again this year for another four years.

“This is a memorable event and we will cherish this forever,” he said.

Edited by  Anasilini  Ratuva

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