Legge makes changes

McDonald’s Fiji Drua Women head coach Mike Legge has shuffled his starting line-up ahead of Sunday’s second pre-season trial against the Queensland Reds in Brisbane.

The match marks the Drua’s first return to Ballymore Stadium since the Reds claimed a semi-final win there in 2025.

Legge has named a 27-member trial squad, welcoming back Mereoni Nakesa and Salaseini Railumu from injury.

Emerging rugby player from Sabeto, Nadi, who has quickly risen through the ranks in both sevens and 15s rugby, former student of Adi Cakobau School student Varanisese Qoro comes into the starting side at fly-half, replacing the injured Imari Nai following the team’s opening trial in Suva. Aqela Raitubu and Ruth Raketekete also earn starts.

In the starting 15, Karalaini Naisewa (1) will start at loosehead prop with Tiana Robanakadavu (3) at tighthead prop and captain Bitila Tawake (2) at hooker.

Mereoni Nakesa (4) will start at lock partnering Carletta Yee (5) in the middle row. Loose forward Nunia Daunimoala (6) starts at blindside flanker position with Alfreda Fisher (7) to start at openside. Sulita Waisega (8) is the Number 8.

In the backline, Evivi Senikarivi (9), starts at halfback partnering Qoro (10) who is at flyhalf. Aqela Raitubu (11) starts at left wing Michellae Stolz (14) on the right wing. Josivini Naihamu (12) starts at inside centre with Vika Nakacia (13) to start outside her. Litiana Vueti (15) is at fullback.

Impact players

Players on the bench include Keleni Marawa, Selai Naliva, Zipporah Sorokacika, Keri Lawavou, Elesi Saukuru, Vilisi Tivalele, Salaseini Railumu, Kolora Lomani, Vatiseva Cavuru, Ivamere Nabura, Ruth Raketekete and Kelera Roqorua.