INNK Fiji Rugby Farebrother-Sullivan Trophy champion Naitasiri is likely to host the first defence at Naluwai.

And villagers up in the hills welcomed the move in bringing the showdown where it all started for the team.

Namosi will challenge for the coveted silverware when round three of Skipper Provincial Cup resumes after COVID-19 restrictions are lifted.

The Sireli Kaloucava-captained side defeated Nadi 22-17 for the prized possession last Saturday and now shares the lead on 10 points with Nadroga with two bonus wins after two rounds.

The villagers of Naluwai and Wadracia welcomed the return of the game to the original home of Naitasiri rugby.

Speaking to SUNsports, Naluwai village headman Kaminieli Nainimadrou said the district of Rara are ready to host matches in the school.

“We are happy and ready to host any team that comes to play in Naluwai,” he said.

“Most of our people don’t get the luxury to watch our boys play at Ratu Cakobau Park or any other ground in Fiji let alone watch them play on television. So it’s a good thing to bring it back to Naluwai.

“Some travel for miles by foot or horse and then travel by carrier down to Nausori which is quite far and expensive just to watch Naitasiri play.

“But the burden would now be eased watching their players at home.

“Bringing the games here will really help fans up here because there are lot of supporters and the villages are close to Naluwai.

“Not only will we get to watch rugby, we also have the chance to sell root crops, food and drinks to assist our families.

“It is a positive move for everyone and we excited about hosting the game.

“I want to thank the Naitasiri Rugby Union and the Fiji Rugby Union for considering Naluwai again.

“We are going to look after the maintenance of the grounds and most importantly players’ welfare.”

With Ratu Cakobau Park yet to be repaired following damages caused by Tropical Cyclone Ana in February, the Highlanders have limited options.

“After our boys won the trophy in Nadi, we knew there was no other option but to come back home to where it all started for Naitasiri,”Nainimadrou said.

“Ever since Saturday night families and relatives are talking about hosting the challenge here in Naluwai.”

Stoning Rugby Fans
Nainimadrou has reminded fans to behave and abide by the rules.

He commented after Naitasiri fans were stoned in Vatukarasa, Namada and Tagaqe villages in Nadroga when returning to Suva on Saturday.

Nainimadrou reassured players and fans that the district of Rara will look after everybody who travelled to Naluwai.

“Gone are the days when we react or seek revenge when such incidents happened.”

“Let bygones be bygones and let’s move on with life.”

“I’ve reminded my people on the importance of keeping our traditional relationship strong and fans should not vent their anger through the social media.”

“I can reassure fans and players that we will look after everybody at Naluwai.”

“Safety is paramount and we will be ready to assist Police in seeing that everything is secured on the day.”

Feedback: simione.haravanua@fijisun.com.fj