Fiji Rugby launches Latui side to strengthen pathways ahead of Europe tour

Fiji Rugby Union has unveiled the Fiji Latui, a new representative side designed to bridge the gap between domestic rugby and the Flying Fijians, with CEO Koli Sewabu describing it as a critical step in the country’s long-term development strategy. The 37-man squad will play two matches in Europe this month, facing a Munster Selection side on November 14 before taking on Ireland A the following week.

The Latui replaces the Fijian Warriors as the national programme’s second-tier representative team, sitting directly below the Flying Fijians. Ten players from Fiji’s domestic Skipper Cup competition have been included in the inaugural squad, with Flying Fijians prop Mesake Doge — a 2023 Rugby World Cup squad member who started against England and Scotland during the July Nations Championship — headlining the roster.

Sewabu was clear that the initiative is about more than fielding an additional Fijian team on the international stage. “For us, this is much more than just putting another Fijian rugby team on the field, whether that’s in Europe, the UK, or other parts of the world,” he said. “It’s about giving our players, our coaches and our officials more opportunities, building strong relationships overseas, and making sure Fiji rugby is in a better position to benefit from the opportunities available in the international game.”

The CEO acknowledged that the professional rugby landscape is evolving rapidly and that Fiji must adapt to remain competitive. “The professional game is changing, the rugby landscape is changing very quickly and the demands on our players are increasing, and the competition is getting stronger and tougher every year,” Sewabu said. “If we want to keep up, more importantly, if we want to improve, we need to keep finding ways to develop our players, our coaches, and then give them the right exposure. That is where the Fiji Latui comes in.”

While the Fijian Drua continue to compete in Super Rugby Pacific, Sewabu argued that a separate representative side playing against other nations’ next-senior teams fills a distinct developmental role. “Having a Fijian team to play other nations’ net senior representative team will allow our players to experience a different rugby environment, face new challenges and become more familiar with the standards expected in professional rugby,” he added.

The full 37-man Latui squad includes forwards Mesake Doge, Emosi Tumania, Sylvester Vakauliafa, Sesoni Tamani, Ratu Osea Dasalusalu, Joseva Baleiloa, John Muller, Samuela Tawake, Kaliova Bulia, Peni Naruma, Petero Mailulu, Watsoni Waqanisabavi, Rt. Meli Turagaca, Isai Lotawa, Francis Peters, Apisalome Kurusaqila, and Mosese Tabuakoto, among others.