Skipper Cup trophy to tour the Mamanuca Islands

The Skipper Cup trophy will embark on a tour across the Mamanuca Islands from tomorrow. 

Malolo Rugby Union president Ratu Jone Tuilawa said it will be visiting all 16 resorts that sponsored and supported the Tide Tribe Malolo side throughout the season. 

Malolo defeated Naitasiri, 41-16, to claim their first Skipper Cup title win. 

He said the tour will begin at Mamanuca Island Resort and travel via the Malolo Cat transfer, concluding at Solevu village which is home to many players and management; the trophy will remain there until the next season.

“This victory is not just for the team; it’s for all of Malolo,” Tuilawa said. 

“We are proud of how far our boys have come, and we thank everyone from the villages and resorts who supported us from the start.”

Malolo’s win on Saturday at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva marked a historic milestone and Tuilawa said it was dedicated to the late Nadroga head coach, Esala Nauga. 

Tuilawa said players were accorded to a celebration on Monday night at Nadroumai village, Nadroga.

“Most players in the Malolo squad hail from Nadroumai village, and the team expressed heartfelt gratitude for the villagers’ continuous support and hospitality throughout the season,” he said. 

Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka meets members of the Malolo team prior to the Skipper Cup final match at the HFC Bank Stadium on November 1, 2025.

Photo: Leon Lord

Standout players including Esala Nalobo, Apete Daveta, and Aporosa Dabulawaki, have represented Fiji at the national level, Tuilawa said the management applauded the contributions of the young squad, many of whom are under 19-years-old. 

“Standout players such as Isaia Rugu was selected for the Fiji 7s team and Douglas Daveta, joining the Army team for the Sukuna Bowl, reflect the depth of talent being developed,” Tuilawa said.

“Several others are being monitored through the Drua development programme and will be confirmed later.”

He also acknowledged the Sau Turaga of Solevu village and other village chiefs for their leadership and support, recognising the crucial role of community unity in the team’s success. 

Adding to the celebrations, Tuilawa is set to tie the knot on November 28, giving the island yet another reason to come together in celebration.

Malolo Rugby is already planning for next season, aiming to defend the Skipper Cup. 

“This is just the beginning for Malolo Rugby,” Tuilawa said. 

“Next year, we’ll be ready again and we welcome any team that wants to challenge us on our home ground.”

Nasilasila’s case

Tuilawa also thanked the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) and all partners for their support during the season, acknowledging the challenges faced, particularly during the finals. 

He said they respected FRU’s decision on former national sevens rep Amenoni Nasilasila. 

Malolo named Nasilasila on the bench for the finals, however, his name was omitted by FRU and was asked to leave the field during warm-up. 

FRU clarified that Nasilasila did not meet the Terms of Participation (TOP) for the competition. 

“We believe in giving people second chances,” Tuilawa said. 

“Nasilasila made a difference in training and motivated the boys throughout the season. His presence was felt even if he didn’t play.”