Some sporting history will be made in Parramatta next month when new Super Rugby Pacific franchise, Fijian Drua, open the 2022 season at CommBank Stadium.
The Round 1 blockbuster against the NSW Waratahs will take place on Friday, February 18.
Fijian Drua CEO Brian Thorburn said although it’s an ‘away match’ for his club, both the Drua and Waratahs recognise the historic nature of the game in the heart of western Sydney.
“It will be an honour for the first ever Swire Shipping (major sponsor) Fijian Drua matchday 23 players to run out onto the field on February 18 at CommBank Stadium in Parramatta, proudly representing Fiji and Fijians everywhere,” he said.
“The 25-year dream and this incredible journey we’ve been waiting for will finally become a reality and it will be a moment to remember for years to come.”
With the Waratahs set to have a clear advantage supporter-wise for the opening fixture, Thorburn is encouraging all Fijians to turn out for the important clash, and to support his side when they’re in Australia.
“We’re calling on Fijian fans and rugby supporters to come in numbers, paint CommBank Stadium blue and fill it with the sounds of Fiji,” he said.
“Let’s show the rugby world what it means for Fiji to have its own team in Super Rugby.”
In further good news for local supporters, the Drua have announced that the highly-anticipated Round 13 match against fellow debutant and Pacific vuvale Moana Pasiifika will also be played in Parramatta on May 14.
“This will undoubtedly be a match for the ages as the Drua and Moana go head to head, Thorburn said.
“Friendships and kava will flow after the match, but it will be fierce action on the field with high energy and high impact rugby that Pacific Islanders are renowned for.
“The boys are chomping at the bit for this particular match, which will serve a treat for Fijian, Samoan, Tongan and other Pacific fans alike.”
Tickets for the upcoming February 18 match against the Waratahs at CommBank Stadium will be available via Ticketek.
Troy Dodds is Parra News' Managing Editor and Breaking News Reporter. He has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia’s leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.