Stage set for Skipper Cup kick off

Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) today launched its 2023 Fiji Rugby Skipper Cup competition. The format of this season has been revised seeing sevens rounds of game before the semi-final and the final.

FRU also hosted a workshop with its participating member unions who went through half day of refresher course for the competition, which is set to begin this Saturday, the 8th of July.

FRU Administrator Simione Valenitabua extended his appreciation to the Unions and major partners for their steely commitment towards local rugby.

He particularly thanked CJ Patel Group of Companies for their continuous support of the Skipper Cup, a breeding ground for champions of Fiji.

“I would like to than CJ Patel Group for being by Fiji Rugby’s side when it comes to a competition that is the pinnacle of domestic rugby in this country.

We know all teams playing in this competition play to represent their province with pride and set the example for young players to strive to reach this level.”

Valenitabua said “In our current financial tough times, we are grateful to CJ Patel for believing in rugby and supporting the clubs and the competition operations.”

CJ Patel Group Marketing Manager, Ashwin Prasad said “We are excited to partner with FRU on another year of Skipper Cup. This year though is revised down to 7 rounds before the semi’s and finals, will still have the impact we want for a tournament at this level”

He added that CJ Patel firmly believes in investing in grass roots rugby as this is where our rugby talent is groomed and prepared for the international stage.

“Our success at the international stage and with Drua particularly is attributed to Skipper Cup as this where training and scouting for best rugby players in Fiji starts. There is a need for more local tournaments to encourage and nurture talent so that our pool of players ready to represent Fiji is always sustained”

Ashwin Prasad said “He has confidence in FRU to deliver a successful and exciting tournament and wishes all the teams best of luck to win the Skipper Cup this year”

ROUND 1 SKIPPER CUP DRAWS:
Suva v Nadroga – HFC Bank Satdium
Macuata v Naitasiri- Subrail Park
Nadi v Yasawa- Prince Charles Park
Tailevu v Namosi- Ratu Cakobau
*U19 kicks off at 1pm
*Senior kicks off at 3pm