"Battle of Fiji" - Super Rugby's Fijian Drua confirm unique Pre-Season warm-up clash

For the first time, the Drua will take on a representative side drawn from the very best of Fiji’s provincial competition, with the two teams competing for the Sun Bell Trophy at Lautoka’s Churchill Park on Friday 6 February. The match will serve as a key part of the Drua’s build-up to the new Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific campaign.

The Skipper XV Select will feature standout performers from the Skipper Cup, Fiji’s premier domestic provincial competition, creating a rare showdown between Super Rugby professionals and the country’s top grassroots talent. The concept was devised by Drua head coach Glen Jackson, who first floated the idea at the Fiji Rugby Symposium in August 2025, before it was embraced by Fiji Rugby and the provincial unions.

The fixture represents more than a simple trial match. It is a celebration of Fiji’s rugby depth, offering provincial stars a unique chance to test themselves against Super Rugby opposition, while giving Drua supporters a glimpse of both established names and emerging local talent on the same field.

Kick-off is scheduled for 4pm (Fiji Time), with Churchill Park once again set to host a major rugby occasion. While ticket details have been confirmed, the emphasis remains firmly on the significance of the occasion and the rarity of the match-up itself.

Fijian Drua General Manager Commercial Shane Hussein believes the appetite for the contest reflects its novelty and cultural importance.

“The interest in the Battle of Fiji is really high, so we’ve made ticket prices as affordable as we could. It is going to be a Fiji rugby fan’s dream – the opportunity to watch their favourite Drua and provincial players bring intensity, flair and excitement on 6th February to Lautoka,” Hussein said.

With the Drua preparing to launch their Super Rugby Pacific campaign just eight days later, the Battle of Fiji promises to be a meaningful and symbolic warm-up – one that underlines the deep connection between the professional franchise and Fiji’s provincial rugby heartland.