Bright days ahead for Malolo Rugby
The ground is set to be recognised as a potential hub for the future development of rugby in the South Pacific, as Mana Island will look into developing the ground and facilities to suit World Rugby standard in terms of hosting elite teams.
Thursday 04 September 2025 | 20:30
Malolo rugby fans during the Skipper Cup clash against Suva at the now Ratu Iliesa Sports Park in Mana Island on August 16, 2023.
Photo: MRU
The Yawini Sports Park is going to be officially renamed the Ratu Iliesa Sports Park from today. The renaming of the park coincides with the Skipper Cup clash between Malolo and Tailevu.
This is a special tribute to the Turaga Tuilawa (Ratu Iliesa Neitauniyalo) on his five-year journey with Malolo Rugby Union (MRU) since he joined them in 2020.
This change in the naming rights is part of the Memorandum of Understanding agreement between MRU and the Mana Island Resort and this will be promoted both locally and internationally.
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The ground is set to be recognised as a potential hub for the future development of rugby in the South Pacific, as Mana Island will look into developing the ground and facilities to suit World Rugby standard in terms of hosting elite teams.
This will carry a proud legacy of being one of MRU’s home grounds hosting top teams from across Fiji in the sanctioned national domestic competition.
“We extend our sincere gratitude to the directors and management of Mana Island Resort Group for their partnership and support. A big Vinaka to the Vanua o Lawa Na Yavusa ei Lima,” stated the MRU.
“The future of Malolo Rugby unfolds before us with a clear pathway. With God’s grace and guidance, we shall fear no one but work hard to succeed.”
The Malolo Under-20 side takes on Tailevu at 12pm with the main match at 2pm.
Line-ups
Malolo U20:
1. Sairusi Nabou, 2. Jeremaia Dreve (captain), 3. Joeli Duwai, 4. Nevote Ravouvou, 5. Kalaveti Molilevu, 6. Benji Mataitoga, 7, Apolosa Drauna, 8. Vatawa Jitoko, 9. Aporosa Daunivucu, 10. Viliame Nawaqa, 11. Josua Derenalagi, 12. Joseva Raitala (vice-captain), 13. Naisa Naloki, 14. Vinaya Kunaturaga, 15. Jone Ratubuli.
Reserves: 16. Sikeli Ukauka, 17. Tomasi Vuniyayawa, 18. Fero Lasagavibau, 19. Mosese Naikabakaba, 20. Joeli Mosi, 21. Erami Matarara, 22. Kijione Bositu, 23. Savenaca Batimala.
Malolo:
1. Josevata Natoga, 2. Apisalome Vidovi, 3. Meli Kurisaru, 4. Watile Tuinagiagia (captain), 5. Josaia Cokaibusa, 6. Vilikesa Kuribolo, 7. Semisi Lave, 8. Damanu Guiwasa, 9. Simeli Karacia, 10. Tevita Ledua, 11. Aporosa Tabulawaki (vice-captain), 12. Joseva Tamata, 13. Jone Gaunavou, 14. Tomasi Tawake, 15. Douglas Daveta.
Reserves: 16. Apisai Neimila, 17. Sailosi Sauturaga, 18. Wame Waqanaceva, 19. Wame Naqiolevu, 20. Tevita Natoga, 21. Maleli Nasilasila, 22. Esala Nalobo, 23. Kaliova Senibalolo
