Fijiana XVs Eye Breakthrough in Pool B Showdowns
The Vodafone Fijiana XVs are preparing for a defining test against Canada and Scotland, with both clashes offering a true measure of how far they’ve come since their World Cup debut three years ago.
While reaching the knockout rounds would be a tall order, Fiji’s unpredictability and flair make them one of the tournament’s most dangerous underdogs.
Building from Experience
The Fijiana first made headlines in 2022 with a dramatic 21–17 victory over South Africa. Though heavy defeats to England and France that year underlined the gap to the world’s elite, the experience proved invaluable.
Since then, Fiji’s rise has been accelerated by the success of the Fijian Drua in Australia’s Super W competition. Two titles and a third-place finish in 2025 have created a genuine pathway for local talent, with most of the current national squad drawn from the Drua’s ranks. That continuity has brought both chemistry and confidence to the team.
A New Blend of Flair and Discipline
Former Wales coach Ioan Cunningham has sought to preserve Fiji’s natural offloading, instinctive style, while adding a layer of control to match the world’s best.
“The Fiji style of play is very much around the offload, reaction, being natural and enjoyment,” Cunningham explained. “We want to keep that in our game, but we’ve also had to get across that sometimes patience with the ball is key. If we stick to the process, we can surprise a few people.”
The Road Ahead
Fiji will open their Pool B campaign against world No. 2 Canada in York, followed by a crucial clash with Scotland in Salford. The Scots beat them 59–15 last year, but the Fijiana believe the gap is closing fast.
Their final pool match will see Cunningham face his former side, Wales, at Sandy Park in Exeter.
The Fijiana’s first challenge comes this Sunday, with kick-off against Canada set for 4:30am (Fiji time).