Botia impressed by Skipper Cup
Botia said the Test matches against Wales, England and Scotland was a valuable learning experience for the Flying Fijians despite the fact they did not register any win.
Monday 10 August 2026 | 09:30
Kadavu second five-eighth Kelevi Ratuvere scores a try against Naitasiri during their Skipper Cup clash at Ratu Cakobau Park, Nausori, on August 8, 2026. Naitasiri won 43-17.
Photo: Josua Buredua
The intensity of the domestic rugby competition has impressed veteran Flying Fijian flanker Levani Botia.
Botia, who is dubbed the ‘Demolition Man’ was among fans that watched the Skipper Cup clash between Naitasiri and Kadavu at Ratu Cakobau Park in Nausori, last Saturday.
With his home team Naitasiri coming out victors, 43-17, Botia said the Skipper Cup competition has progressed.
“Kadavu really played well,” the La Rochelle forward said.
“It is interesting to see the rise in the level of competition. The performance of both teams showcase the depth of talent within the provinces.”
Supporting his home team provided Botia the opportunity to reconnect with the domestic competition following the Flying Fijians campaign in the inaugural Nations Championship.
Botia said the Test matches against Wales, England and Scotland was a valuable learning experience for the Flying Fijians despite the fact they did not register any win.
“It was a really good competition (Nations Championship). We learnt a lot and we can do better,” he told SUNsports.
Fiji opened their campaign with a 39-24 loss to Wales before they suffered a 73-8 defeat to England in Liverpool followed by the 33-17 defeat to Scotland in Murrayfield.
Despite the results, Botia said the support shown to the team throughout the campaign was immense.
“Most of the teams that participated have been camping together for a long time, compared to us. But, we learn what we can do and we must move on,” he added.
Fixtures
Meanwhile, this Saturday sees Kadavu hosting their first Skipper Cup match against Rewa at the Namalata District School ground in Vunisea. It is yet to be decided whether the Vinod Patel Ba rugby team could be travelling to Wairiki to face hosts Taveuni. If it happens, this will be another first as well.
The McDonald’s Nadi team travels to the Capital City to face the FMF Suva while BLK Nadroga takes on Fresh Choice Tailevu at Ratu Cakobau Park, Nausori. Defending champions Malolo hosts Navosa at Lawaqa Park while Naitasiri travels to Churchill Park to take on Lautoka.
