The Subrails sponsored- Re­public of Fiji Military Forc­es (RFMF) rugby team are ready to defend the Ratu Sukuna Bowl against Police at the ANZ Stadium in Suva on Friday.

The RFMF’s campaign received a major boost yesterday with a $5000 sponsorship from Subrails.

RFMF captain and hooker Isireli Ledua said the sponsorship has been a timely one.

Speaking during the cheque pres­entation ceremony, Subrails man­aging director Shiva Gounder said this was an important gesture as it marked their partnership with RFMF.

“This is Subrails show of sup­port for the RFMF in the upcoming Sukuna Bowl,” he said.

Gounder said the theme ‘Rise Fiji Rise’ reflects the attitude of our be­loved nation during this COVID-19 pandemic time.

“This year’s Sukuna Bowl is go­ing to be a charity event. All funds collected from the gate takings will be used to assist many children in the country who have been affect­ed during this time of COVID.

“For Subrails, this has allowed us to give back to the community,” he added.

RFMF Commanding Officer 3FIR Lieutenant-Colonel Aseri Rokoura thanked the Subrails family for their support.

“This is a charity event which will feature a very competitive rugby game.”

He highlighted the RFMF side have top players like Meli Der­enalagi, John Stewart and Ledua while Police have got James Bown, Eremasi Radrodro and Sireli Ka­loucava.

Rokoura said since March they had deployed over 100 RFMF per­sonnels to assist the Ministry of Health in ensuring all health pro­tocols and procedures were ad­hered to in our battle to contain the pandemic.

“The theme which is almost simi­lar to the one for Winston is to lift the spirits of all Fijians during this COVID time,” he added.

The main game of the Ratu Suku­na Bowl showdown kicks-off at 4.30pm.