Expect the standard of the  Skipper Cup and ANZ Marama championship to be raised to a new level says Fiji Rugby Union operations manager Sale Sorovaki.

“The week in week out Super Rugby Pacific competition has been consistent with the two Drua sides making their mark among the regu­lars,” Sale said.

“Their performances have pro­vided a platform challenging those in the Skipper, Marama and Vanua championships to upgrade a par better,” he said.

“There is a shift in standard; teams are expected to be consistent, play better and display construc­tive rugby, more thinking outside the box.”

The Skipper Cup and Marama championship kick off this Friday and Saturday.

“It is important that we start well and not only lift the standards of rugby but also keep that consist­ency level,” he said.

“Exciting times are ahead not only our local players but also for the push to be in the Swire Shipping Fijian Drua and the Rooster Fijiana Drua team.

“The local competitions are a step­ping stone for one to get the Drua sides.

“We watched both teams perform­ing well last weekend, their performances will definitely motivate many to reach there one day.

“If I was one of these local players I would be motivated and to work harder, follow instructions, challenge myself to be better.

“Gone are the waiting days, players should be doing their own train­ing, weights and planning their di­ets during the off season.

“There is no room now for unpro­fessionalism.

“Rugby is a career now – there is not room for vakavanua.”

The Skipper and Marama champi­onship this weekend are played on six venues.

Nauluwai is hosting the double header between neighbours Fare­brother holders Naitasiri face Na­mosi.

The other games: Suva host Nadi at the ANZ stadium for the Skipper Cup, Nadroga host Tailevu in Lawaqa and Northland host Rewa at Gatward Park Korovou.

Defending champion for Skipper is Suva while Lautoka is the de­fending champion in the Marama competition.

The Vanua Championships start April 23.