The Sharks have four players in the Fiji squad for its first ever Women’s Rugby League World Cup campaign next week.
Cronulla club stalwarts Cassie Staples and Talei Holmes have captained Fiji before and will lead the island nation again, alongside Sharks NRLW coach Tony Herman, who has guided the international side over the years.
Cronulla young guns Leilani Ahsam and Nanise Vakacavu will also add some punch to the Fijian forward pack as they aim to make a splash in their inaugural World Cup appearance.
“Yeah, it’s really special,” Staples shared.
“There’s been so much work that has gone on behind the scenes. There’s been a whole journey to this moment, and the girls have worked so hard.
“Rugby League is a massive part of the culture back home, and it gives pathways and opportunities for girls to come through.
“It’s a really important time for people in rugby league but especially the Fiji Bulikula women.”
The Sharks winger helped Fiji secure the eighth and final World Cup spot at the World Cup Qualifiers last year, in what was a watershed moment for women’s sport in the country.
Proud is an understatement for Staples, who said playing for Fiji “represents something more than footy."
“It’s heritage, it’s culture, it’s where your family is from and across the Pacific, especially in Fiji, rugby league in general is just such a massive part of our communities, and we love it,” the Bulikula captain said.
They face stiff competition with New Zealand up first in Newcastle next week but are ready to match it with the 2022 World Cup runner-up.
Fiji World Cup Schedule
Round 1 – Fiji v New Zealand: October 18, McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle.
Round 2 - Fiji v Papua New Guinea: October 24, Santos National Football Stadium, Port Moresby.
Round 3 - Fiji v France: October 31, Cbus Super Stadium, Gold Coast.
