Bring It On, says Captain

Discipline and dominance in collision have been the main area of focus for the Vodafone Fijiana XV team during their preparation for today’s historic Test match against South Africa.

Captain Kolora Lomani shared the team’s focus during an interview with SUNsports yesterday.

“We’ve been working on that during the week and I’m backing my team all the way,” she said.

“We just have to use our forwards to punch through the middle and get our backline running on the edge.”

Lomani said the players had transitioned well from the Super W season to Test match preparation.

“A Test match is another level of rugby, so we’re looking forward to the game and we’re excited,” she said.

“Hosting the Springbok women’s team here in Fiji is going to be a whole different game for us.”

The Fijiana XV captain expects a physical challenge from South Africa.

“It’s a home game for us, so we won’t let them walk over us. We’re not underestimating them and we know they’re a strong, physical team, so we’re up for the challenge in the collisions, both in attack and defence.”

Lomani urged her players to be resilient and understand their roles on the field.

“We have a lot of young girls in the team and it’s a good experience for them to know what it’s like to be in this environment,” she said.

“Having Jade (Coates) back in the fold after being away in New Zealand has been great, along with two debutants.”

Lomani praised new head coach Willie Walker for his experience and leadership during their preparation.

“The girls have learnt from him as well, especially the backline with the kicking game,” she said.

“He taught us a lot, so we’re looking forward to what he has in store for us for the rest of the season.”

The Fijiana team will use the two Tests against South Africa as part of their build-up to upcoming matches against Japan and the World XV series.

“The morale at camp has been good. The new players who came in this year have really mingled well with us and we’ve gelled well.

“Being in camp together has brought us closer, and the connection has been really good off the field.”

Lomani said she has become more resilient after the Fiji Drua women’s second place finish at the 2026 Super W season.

“We’re looking forward to seeing our supporters, not just watching us but also supporting the Deans and Raluve competitions and the next generation of players coming through,” she added.

Feedback: ioane.asioli@fijisun.com.fj