FIJI Water Flying Fijians head coach Jake White admits he expected his side to be more competitive for longer in its 54-17 loss to France, but was encouraged by the team’s refusal to give up despite falling behind early.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and External Trade is looking to strengthen its partnership with the Fiji Rugby Union to expand Fiji’s international sporting opportunities.

The Flying Fijians suffered a disappointing 54-17 defeat to France in their Nations Championship Test in Lyon after the hosts dominated large periods of the contest.

Ra Rugby has etched its name into Fiji rugby history after claiming the Farebrother-Sullivan Trophy for the first time with a 32-27 victory over holders Naitasiri at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva this afternoon.

FIJI Water Flying Fijians forward Pita-Gus Sowakula says the squad is embracing the challenge of facing France as preparations continue for tomorrow’s highly anticipated Test match.

Ra have named a strong starting lineup for tomorrow’s Inkk Farebrother Trophy challenge against holders Naitasiri in Suva.

The FIJI Water Flying Fijians will get a valuable opportunity to measure themselves against the world’s third-ranked team when they face France in the Nations Championship, with head coach Jake White viewing the encounter as an important test ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Naitasiri’s Inkk Farebrother trophy defense tomorrow against Ra in Suva has been boosted with the return of veteran, Etonia Rokotuisawa.

Nathan Hughes is set to make his debut for the FIJI Water Flying Fijians after being named in the starting line-up for their Nations Championship clash against France in Lyon on Sunday.

Fiji Rugby is relying on sponsors, donors and internal support to meet the financial demands of the newly established Fijian Latui programme, with the union taking responsibility for ensuring players are properly supported.

As the Fiji Water Flying Fijians gear up for their opening game of the Nations Championship, winger Jiuta Wainiqolo says they have been making the most of the past few days working on their game plan against the French.

The Fijian Latui is giving local players another opportunity to put themselves in contention for the FIJI Water Flying Fijians’ 2027 Rugby World Cup squad, with Fiji Rugby stressing that national selection will not be guaranteed for any player.