Fijian Drua captain Bitila Tawake is optimistic about her team’s performance in the upcoming Super Rugby Women’s season, despite recent controversy involving the Fiji Rugby Union. Laijipa Naulivou, the newly appointed director of rugby, was dismissed shortly after making disparaging comments about the LGBTQ+ community, stating that Fiji has a “gay problem” and expressing her disapproval of homosexuality in women’s rugby. Following her comments, the Fiji Rugby Union reassured players that this incident would not affect their development or opportunities within the sport.
As the Drua prepare for their season opener against the NSW Waratahs on February 28, Tawake has emphasised maintaining focus on the game and the positive spirits of the team. She acknowledged the competition is fierce this year, particularly with it being a World Cup year. The format allows the top four teams to advance to the semi-finals after a five-week regular season, culminating in the grand final on April 12 at North Sydney Oval. The champions will then compete against the Super Rugby Aupiki winner in a historic trans-Tasman clash on April 17.