Roy backs Ba to win IDC at home

Fijian football legend Roy Krishna may be gearing up for his season opener in India this weekend, but his heart is firmly set on the 2025 FMF Inter-District Championship (IDC), which kicks off next week.

The 38-year-old striker—widely hailed as Fiji’s most successful professional footballer believes Ba has a strong shot at IDC glory this year, especially with the tournament returning to Govind Park and the newly redeveloped 4R Electric Stadium after nearly a decade.

“I might be overseas, but I never miss the IDC. It’s the biggest football tournament in Fiji,” Krishna told SUNsports in an exclusive interview. 

“And this year is extra special after almost 10 years; it’s finally back in Ba.”

Krishna, who lives in Ba when he’s not playing overseas, recently attended the Ba vs Labasa league match at the revamped stadium—and says the experience left a lasting impression.

“The stadium was jam-packed,” he recalled. 

“The atmosphere was electric. You could feel how much football means to this town. 

“That energy is going to be a massive boost for the home side during the IDC. The 4R Stadium will be a fortress.”

Having made Ba his home base in Fiji, Krishna said he has seen the team’s preparation up close.

“I know how much effort the Ba football management has put into this squad. 

“The players are sharp, the coaching is solid, and the fans are ready. The whole town is behind them; it won’t be easy to beat Ba at home.”

Yet, despite his confidence in Ba, Krishna remains loyal to his roots.

“Labasa will always be my first team. I’d love to see the Babasiga Lions lift the trophy again. I saw during the B.O.G (Battle of the Giants) just how powerful home support can be. But this time, I think Ba has the edge, especially playing under lights, in front of that crowd, on a pitch they know better than anyone.”

The return of the IDC to Ba has generated a wave of excitement across the Fijian football community. With newly installed floodlights, a modern stadium, and surging public interest, this year’s tournament is shaping up to be one of the most anticipated in recent memory.

“The 12th man, the crowd will be a key factor if Ba is to lift the trophy. That home support can push the players to another level,” Krishna said. 

“But at the same time, every team will come well-prepared. No one is going to give it away easily. This IDC isn’t just about football,” Krishna added. 

“It’s a celebration and the return of top-tier football to Ba, of community pride, and of the passion that makes Fijian football so special. 

“And I truly believe Ba has what it takes to rise to the occasion.”