Fiji’s rugby team are gearing up for a much-anticipated clash with England at Twickenham, carrying the hopes of a proud rugby nation eager for redemption. The fixture, coming between England’s victory over Australia and their upcoming meeting with New Zealand, is anything but a routine encounter. For Fiji, it’s a chance to right the wrongs of the 2023 Rugby World Cup quarter-final defeat in Marseille — a match that remains fresh in the minds of fans back home.
In that memorable quarter-final, Fiji pushed England to the limit before narrowly losing 30–24. It came weeks after Fiji’s historic win over England at Twickenham, marking their first-ever triumph against the hosts. Since then, the Pacific Islanders have continued to rise in global rugby, now sitting ninth in the world rankings and showing impressive consistency against higher-ranked opponents.
Rugby’s popularity in Fiji cannot be overstated — it is a sport that unites people across all islands and communities. The success of Fijian Drua, the nation’s Super Rugby franchise launched in 2017, has transformed local development, offering homegrown players a pathway to the elite level. The combination of Drua-based talent and seasoned European professionals has given Fiji a squad with depth, power, and flair.
Head coach Mick Byrne has instilled a straightforward yet effective philosophy: play with physicality and seize control early. His approach delivered back-to-back Pacific Nations Cup titles, including a thrilling final win over Japan in September. As they head into the England test, players like Jiuta Wainiqolo, Josua Tuisova, and breakout star Elia Canakaivata are expected to be central figures in Fiji’s attack.
England, chasing a ninth straight win, will be wary of Fiji’s explosive style and unrelenting aggression. The last meeting between the two sides was brutal, with thunderous tackles and moments of brilliance defining the contest. Fiji’s strength lies not only in individual skill but also in their belief and national pride — a powerful motivator that continues to drive their rise.
As the teams prepare to meet again, Fiji’s message is clear: they’re no longer underdogs but a force ready to challenge anyone on the world stage.
