Tora in, Delasau out

The Ba Rugby Union has appointed Ben Tora as their new head coach for the upcoming domestic competition.

This was confirmed to SUNsports yesterday by Ba Rugby Union secretary Gabby Kautoga.

Tora replaces former Flying Fijian star winger Vilimoni Delasau.

“Delasau has moved up to become Ba Rugby ambassador but he’ll be with the team,” Kautoga said.

“Due to aggravating old injuries, it has been troubling him (Delasau) and he won’t be able to give his all but he’ll always be around to help.”

He said Tora had been interviewed and undergone all the processes involved before his appointment was confirmed.

Kautoga also indicated that Waisale Tikomailepanoni is the new head coach for the Ba women’s rugby team.

“Josaia Tuwai still remains as the Ba Under-20 head coach,” he added.

PROGRESS

From last Saturday’s Special General Meeting (SGM) Kautoga indicated that Ba Rugby has a backup plan for their club games in case Fiji Rugby Union shifts the schedule for the Skipper Cup competition to August next year.

“We also have a few things we need to improve on. We hope to raise the level of the game and raise the administration from club level as well.”

Kautoga said there would be an increase from 32 to 40 clubs for next year.

“It will be a lot and what we’re trying to tell the other clubs is to improve on their administrative work like team lists, registration and delays during game days,” he said.

“We look at where we are right now, it’s a big achievement but I believe there’s a lot of improvements needed to be done so we can be better in three years’ time.”

Kautoga said their goal for next season is to remain in the Skipper Cup competition and be in the top five spot.

“We want to be in the top five or six to compete for the Farebrother Trophy as well.”