In this bulletin:
1. RUGBY — Crusaders run riot over Fijian Drua in historic Christchurch farewell
2. MSG PM CUP — Vanuatu to host next year’s MSG PM Cup
3. RUGBY — Suva Rugby backs Seruvakula for FRU top job
4. RUGBY — Drua shift focus to Force showdown
5. RUGBY — Yaro Chiefs trio in line for Fiji 7s debut
6. RUGBY — Crusaders too hard to beat at iconic venue: Nasilasila
7. RUGBY LEAGUE — Chiefs entry justified
8. WRESTLING — Palau wrestling team wins 22 medals at Oceania Championships and Open in Samoa
9. WRESTLING — Guam wrestling delivers strong performance at Oceania Championships
10. TAEKWONDO — Three taekwondo medals at Oceania Championships
11. SWIMMING — McCaig balances demands ahead of Oceania champs
PAC – RUGBY: PMN PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 06 Apr 2026
Crusaders run riot over Fijian Drua in historic Christchurch farewell
WELLINGTON, 06 APRIL 2026 (PMN) — The Fijian Drua fell short in key moments as the Crusaders powered to a 69-26 win in an emotional farewell at Apollo Projects Stadium in Christchurch.
Saturday night marked the end of an era for the Crusaders at the venue, where they have built years of success, and a milestone moment for Codie Taylor in his 150th game for the club.
“I just want to give all glory to Jesus Christ our saviour who gave his life on this holy day… yeah, what a special moment,” Taylor told SkySport after the match.
“To go out like that on this stadium, to get the job done and to pull this jersey on for 150 times, I’m just so grateful. I love this team, I love this club.”
In front of a strong home crowd, the Crusaders overcame an early error-filled start to take control through Sevu Reece, who crossed untouched after a sharp backline move.
The Drua responded with pressure of their own but were denied a try for a double movement, a key early turning point.
The Crusaders quickly made them pay, with Leicester Fainga’anuku finishing a well-worked phase before Taylor struck twice from driving mauls as the home side’s forward pack took control.
Reece added his second soon after, pushing the score to 31-0 and putting the Drua under heavy pressure.
But the visitors stayed in the fight. Joe Tamani crossed after sustained phases, and despite trailing, the Drua continued to attack with intent.
Crusaders captain Will Jordan helped steady his side, breaking the line and linking with Chay Fihaki to keep momentum with the hosts.
Even with a player in the bin, the Crusaders held firm before Elia Canakaivata added another try for the Drua from a lineout drive to close the gap before half-time.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Taylor completing a hat-trick early before adding a fourth as the Crusaders’ set piece continued to dominate.
The Drua kept responding, with Canakaivata grabbing his second and former Crusader Manasa Mataele scoring against his old side, a moment of pride despite the scoreboard.
Still, the Crusaders proved too strong. Corey Kellow, Fihaki, and Seb Calder all crossed as the home side ran away with the result.
Jordan said the occasion added extra motivation for his side.
“The chance for the 2026 Crusaders to leave our mark on this awesome stadium which has had a lot of success for us,” he said in a post-match interview.
Drua captain Isoa Nasilasila admitted his side struggled to keep up in key moments.
“You can see they started off well, they are a hard team to stop when they do,” he told SkySport.
“You’ve just got to live in the moments, and we lost a lot of those key moments, and a hard team to stop.
“I think just build on good moments, our physicality was there, and just the conversion rate.
“I guess finding the balance between chaos and good footy, so I think just stick to our game plan,” Nasilasila said.
While the result highlights the gap on the night, the Drua showed glimpses of their physicality and attacking style, qualities they will look to build on as the season continues.
The Crusaders, meanwhile, close the chapter on Apollo Projects Stadium with a performance that reflects their long-standing dominance at the ground…. PACNEWS
VAN – MSG PM CUP: VANUATU DAILY POST PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 06 Apr 2026
Vanuatu to host next year’s MSG PM Cup
PORT VILA, 06 APRIL 2026 (VANUATU DAILY POST) — Vanuatu will host next year’s Melanesian Spearhead Group (MSG) Prime Minister’s (PM) Cup.
The decision to award Vanuatu hosting rights was influenced by discussions held during the MSG Sports Ministers meeting in Papua New Guinea last year, coinciding with the most recent tournament.
The 2027 edition will not only restart the hosting rotation but is also expected to introduce new features, including potential participation from teams outside the region.
Under the current hosting sequence, Vanuatu previously staged the tournament in 2022, followed by New Caledonia in 2023, Solomon Islands in 2024, Papua New Guinea in 2025, and Fiji, which is set to host the upcoming edition from 18 September to 03 October.
Vanuatu will then begin the next cycle in 2027.
As part of broader reforms, the MSG Sports Ministers have agreed in principle to expand the tournament format by inviting two teams from outside the region, potentially from different football confederations.
The move is intended to strengthen competition, particularly in the later stages of the tournament, though details are yet to be finalised.
Hosting responsibilities, including funding, will remain with the host nation, while the MSG Secretariat—operating under member governments—will continue to oversee coordination and governance of the event.
MSG Manager for Sports, Arts and Youth, Bill Henry, emphasised the wider benefits of hosting the tournament.
“Hosting an event of this calibre is a significant opportunity for any country. It raises the nation’s profile, showcases its capabilities, and delivers economic benefits,” he said.
The 2027 tournament will feature both men’s and women’s national teams, a step seen as a boost for gender inclusion and the overall growth of football in the region…. PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY: FBC SPORTS PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 06 Apr 2026
Suva Rugby backs Seruvakula for FRU top job
SUVA, 06 APRIL 2026 (FBC SPORTS) — The FMF Suva Rugby Union is urging the Fiji Rugby Union to officially appoint Senirusi Seruvakula as Head Coach of the FIJI Water Flying Fijians, rather than continuing to place him in acting roles.
The Union says Seruvakula has already stepped into the position on multiple occasions, stressing that qualified local coaches should not continue to be used as temporary options whenever the national body faces challenges.
Suva Rugby Union chairman Maritino Nemani says limiting opportunities for local coaches to take on the top job does little to support the long-term growth and development of rugby in Fiji.
He adds that Seruvakula deserves the same level of backing and resources afforded to overseas coaches, suggesting he could be supported by a mix of international technical advisors and experienced local staff.
Nemani pointed to past success as proof the model can work, referencing Fiji’s 1987 campaign under Josateki Savou and George Simpkin, as well as the 2007 campaign led by Ilivasi Tabua with support from Shannon Fraser and Greg Mumm.
“In both cases Fiji reached the quarterfinals, and in 2023 Seruvakula was Assistant Coach to Simon Raiwalui when Fiji again made the quarterfinals. Those are the only three times Fiji has reached that stage of the Rugby World Cup.”
The SRU also claims reports indicated Seruvakula was the preferred candidate for the top job in 2023 before outside pressure led to the appointment of Raiwalui.
Despite serving as assistant coach during that campaign, the FRU later appointed Mick Byrne as Head Coach in 2024.
The Union says it had raised concerns at the time after Seruvakula was initially told his application had been unsuccessful and that he had not been shortlisted, only to later be informed via email that he had in fact been shortlisted and would be interviewed.
Seruvakula has previously worked under former national coaches John McKee and Vern Cotter and has been shortlisted and interviewed for the top role on several occasions.
Suva Rugby Union is now questioning what more is required, calling on the FRU to place its trust in local coaching talent…. PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY: FBC SPORTS PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 06 Apr 2026
Drua shift focus to Force showdown
SUVA, 06 APRIL 2026 (FBC SPORTS) — The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua have quickly turned their attention to their next assignment following a heavy 69-26 loss to the Crusaders on Friday night in Christchurch.
Head coach Glen Jackson says the side will benefit from an eight-day turnaround as they regroup and prepare for a crucial clash against the Western Force in Lautoka.
Jackson admits the short turnaround between matches has been challenging in recent weeks, but believes the extra time will allow the team to reset and refine their attacking approach.
The Drua returned home Sunday and will now analyse the Force, who are in a similar position on the competition table, making the upcoming encounter even more significant.
Jackson says the players must regain belief and understand the importance of the match, describing it as a tight contest between three teams battling for position.
He adds that securing a win against the Force is vital as the Drua look to keep their campaign on track.
They host the Western Force in Lautoka on Saturday at 4.35pm…. PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY: FBC SPORTS PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 06 Apr 2026
Yaro Chiefs trio in line for Fiji 7s debut
SUVA, 06 APRIL 2026 (FBC SPORTS) — Yaro Chiefs trio Wame Ratuva, Tomasi Vuluma Stark and Isaia Rugu are in line to make their debut for the Fiji Airways men’s 7s side at the Hong Kong 7s.
The trio headline a squad that also features captain Jeremaia Matana, alongside Joseva Talacolo, Tira Wilagi Patterson, Terio Veilawa, Ratu Filipe Sauturaga, Apete Narogo, Vuiviwa Naduvalo, Kavekini Tanivanuakula, Nacani Boginisoko, Ratu Manueli Maisamoa, Douglas Daveta and Akuila Dranivotua.
Meanwhile, Lusiana Tinai and Varasika Tukana are the potential debutants named in the Fiji women’s 7s squad.
Captain Verenaisi Ditavutu leads the side, which includes Sesenieli Donu, Sera Bolatini, Silika Qalo, Adi Vani Buleki, Reapi Ulunisau, Rogosau Adimereani, Mariana Talatoka, Lavena Cavuru, Atelaite Ralivanawa and Ilisapeci Delaiwau.
Both teams feature a balance of experienced campaigners and emerging talent as they gear up for their next outing on the world stage.
The men’s side will meet Germany first at 5.11pm on Friday the 17th of this month, before taking on Great Britain at 8.21pm.
Our womens team take on Japan at 8.44pm before they go against Brazil at 12.01am…. PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY: FBC SPORTS PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 06 Apr 2026
Crusaders too hard to beat at iconic venue: Nasilasila
SUVA, 06 APRIL 2026 (FBC SPORTS) — Swire Shipping Fijian Drua captain Isoa Nasilasila says the Crusaders have won a lot of titles at Apollo Projects stadium, making it a tough place to play, and he hoped the new stadium would not be as challenging for visiting teams.
This after his side went down 69-26 to a dominant Crusaders outfit in Christchurch, as he acknowledged both the challenge of the venue and the class of the opposition.
Nasilasila says the defending champions were simply too strong on the night, capitalising on a fast start and maintaining momentum that the Drua struggled to contain.
“Obviously, they’re a good Crusaders team and we just couldn’t stop them. They’ve got a good roll on, good start, so they’re a tough team to stop.”
The Drua skipper admits his side’s own execution fell short, pointing to handling errors and inconsistency as key factors in the defeat.
“Yeah, I just didn’t do things that we’d want to do. We don’t probably continue with it all the time. It’s obviously, again, just handling errors. That sort of let us down a little bit.”
He also felt the match had moments where decisions and small margins did not go their way, but was quick to credit the Crusaders for their control of the contest.
“It was a bit loose probably from us and from probably the referee a little bit as well. I think there’s a couple of things that could have gone our way. But you’ve just got to take credit to Cody and the Crusaders for what they’ve done.”
Beyond the result, Nasilasila also reflected on playing at the iconic Christchurch venue, which is set to transition as the team prepares for a new stadium era.
Despite mixed personal memories, he acknowledged its place in Super Rugby history.
“It’s been a pretty, I guess, special but interesting place… you can see the history over the last couple of years, especially after the earthquake. They’ve done a great job and it’s served its purpose.”
He adds that while the ground has been a fortress for the Crusaders, he hopes the move brings a fresh chapter.
“The Crusaders have won a lot of titles here. So, it’s a tough place to play at. So hopefully, the new stadium’s not as bad.”
Nasilasila also took a moment to appreciate the strong Fijian support in Christchurch, saying it provided some comfort in a tough away environment.
“It’s always good to hear Fijians wherever you play in the world. So yeah, it definitely helped a bit.”
The Drua will now turn their attention to next week as they look to regroup and bounce back.
They meet the Western Force at 4.35pm in Lautoka…. PACNEWS
PNG – RUGBY LEAGUE: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 06 Apr 2026
Chiefs entry justified
PORT MORESBY, 06 APRIL 2026 (THE NATIONAL) — The PNG Chiefs’ path into Australia’s elite competition the National Rugby League (NRL) may have been unique, but club officials believe it was fully justified and long overdue for a rugby league–mad nation.
General manager Michael Chammas admitted the bid process for Papua New Guinea was “slightly different” compared to other expansion teams, with several key figures heavily involved in earlier stages.
Despite the differences, Chammas said the outcome has placed the club in a strong position moving forward.
“We’re now in a very strong position. The team is set up, we’re on track, and we’re moving things forward,” he said.
He also revealed that the alternative could have seen PNG waiting decades for entry into the competition, pointing to comments made by chairman of the Australian Rugby League Ccmmission (ARLC) Peter V’landys during a recent rugby league meeting.
“If it wasn’t done this way, we might have had to wait until 2038 or even beyond to get a team into the NRL,” Chammas said.
The former NRL.com journalist stressed that Papua New Guinea’s deep connection to rugby league made its inclusion inevitable.
“Rugby league is the national sport. We deserve a team – there’s no question about that,” he said.
He also highlighted the rare opportunity now presented to incoming coach Willie Peters, who will build the club from the ground up.
“Where else do you get a chance to create your own team from scratch? It’s an amazing opportunity,” Chammas said.
With structures now in place and excitement building, Chammas said the focus is firmly on 2028, when the PNG Chiefs are expected to make their long-awaited debut.
“It’s all about getting there and kicking that ball in 2028. I’m really excited,” he added…. PACNEWS
PAC – WRESTLING: ISLAND TIMES PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 06 Apr 2026
Palau wrestling team wins 22 medals at Oceania Championships and Open in Samoa
APIA, 06 APRIL 2026 (ISLAND TIMES) — “Competing in back-to-back tournaments was one of the toughest challenges our athletes have faced,” Head Coach John Tarkong Jr. said, as Palau’s wrestling team capped a historic two-week campaign with 22 medals at the 2026 Oceania Wrestling Championships and Oceania Open.
Palau’s delegation delivered a strong showing across Greco-Roman, freestyle, women’s wrestling and beach wrestling during competitions held 20–22 March and 28–29 March in Apia, Samoa.
The team, led by Tarkong, included athletes Hina Brell, Rondon Kemesong, Manifanur Marino and senior standout Blesam Tarkong, along with referee Skarlee Renguul.
Week One: Oceania Wrestling Championships
Palau opened the championships with success in Greco-Roman competition. Blesam Tarkong advanced to the senior final to claim silver, while juniors Kemesong and Marino each earned bronze medals. Brell added a silver in the women’s division.
In freestyle, Tarkong captured gold in the senior men’s 79-kilogram division, defeating opponents from the Marshall Islands, New Zealand and Samoa. Kemesong secured another bronze, and Marino competed in the 86kg division.
Beach wrestling closed the championships with additional podium finishes. Tarkong earned silver in the senior men’s -80kg, Brell collected silver in the U20 women’s 60kg and bronze in the senior division, and Marino added silver in the U20 -90kg.
Week One medal total: 10
– Blesam Tarkong: 1 gold, 2 silver
– Hina Brell: 2 silver, 1 bronze
– Rondon Kemesong: 2 bronze
– Manifanur Marino: 1 silver, 1 bronze
Week Two: Oceania Open Wrestling Tournament
Palau returned to competition days later for the Oceania Open, competing through fatigue and injuries.
In freestyle, Tarkong won gold in the 79kg division despite a neck injury. Kemesong earned silver in the 74kg category, while Marino secured gold in the 86kg junior division.
In Greco-Roman, Tarkong added another gold in the 82kg senior division. Kemesong took silver in the 77kg junior division, and Marino claimed silver in the 82kg junior category.
Beach wrestling produced more gold for Palau, with Tarkong winning the senior men’s 80kg division. Marino captured gold in the U20 men’s 90kg, Brell earned two silver medals, and Kemesong added bronze in the U20 men’s 80kg.
Week Two medal total: 12
– Blesam Tarkong: 3 gold
– Hina Brell: 2 silver, 1 bronze
– Rondon Kemesong: 2 silver, 1 bronze
– Manifanur Marino: 2 gold, 1 silver
Combined results
Across both competitions, Palau finished with 22 medals:
– Gold: 6
– Silver: 10
– Bronze: 6
Tarkong said the results reflected the team’s resilience and preparation.
“Our team showed incredible resilience, fighting through fatigue and injuries to bring home medals for Palau,” he said.
Development milestones
Beyond competition, Palau’s delegation also made gains in training and certification.
Brell earned certification as a junior coach, while Renguul was recertified as an International Olympic referee. The team also participated in the UWW Oceania Coaching and Referee Course and Athlete Camp, aimed at strengthening technical skills, officiating standards and athlete development.
The Belau Wrestling Federation thanked the Palau National Olympic Committee, WCTC and other sponsors, as well as athletes’ families, for their support.
Looking ahead
The two tournaments marked a significant step for Palau wrestling, combining medal success with athlete and official development. With performances across multiple disciplines, the team is expected to build on its results in future regional competitions…. PACNEWS
GUAM – WRESTLING: GUAM DAILY POST PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 06 Apr 2026
Guam wrestling delivers strong performance at Oceania Championships
HAGATNA, 06 APRIL 2026 (GUAM DAILY POST) — The Guam Amateur Wrestling Federation announced the results of the Guam National Wrestling Team following an impressive showing at the 2026 Oceania Wrestling Championships, in Apia, Samoa.
“The national team was selected through open tryouts conducted from 11–14 February 2026, which were publicly announced and extended to all wrestling clubs across Guam, as well as high school wrestling programmes and their coaches,” a member of the wrestling federation said in a press release. “This inclusive process ensured that all eligible athletes on island had a fair and equal opportunity to compete for a spot and represent Guam on the international stage. Guam’s top wrestlers answered the call and competed for selection.”
The athletes selected from the tryouts included:
• Mia-Lahnee Aquino
• Rckaela Aquino
• Cole Brub
• D’Angelo Dewitt
Tano Duenas
• Marleigh Gofigan
• Andy Quinata Jr.
• John Rojas
• Alan “Lilo” Santiago
Due to United World Wrestling regulations, weight categories without at least two competitors were canceled. This affected Tano Duenas and Mia-Lahnee Aquino, whose respective divisions were not contested. Therefore, they did not compete at the championships.
Despite these challenges, Team Guam delivered an outstanding performance, earning multiple podium finishes across age groups and weight classes.
Gold
• Rckaela Maree Aquino – Senior Women’s 57kg Freestyle
• Alan “Lilo” Santiago – U17 Men’s 60kg Freestyle
• Andy Quinata Jr. – U17 Men’s 110kg Freestyle
• D’Angelo Dewitt – Senior Men’s 92kg Freestyle
Silver
• Cole Brub – U17 Men’s 80kg Freestyle
Bronze
• Andy Quinata Jr. – U20 Men’s 125kg Freestyle
• John Rojas – Senior Men’s 74kg Freestyle
This strong performance highlights the continued growth of wrestling in Guam and reinforces the island’s presence in the Oceania region.
“The federation remains committed to developing athletes through transparent and inclusive selection processes and preparing them for future regional and international competitions,” the federation member said.
“The Guam Amateur Wrestling Federation commends all athletes for their dedication, discipline, and representation of Guam with pride and excellence. Special recognition is given to the coaching staff, families, and supporters who contributed to the team’s success,” the federation added…. PACNEWS
VAN – TAEKWONDO: VANUATU DAILY POST PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 06 Apr 2026
Three taekwondo medals at Oceania Championships
PORT VILA, 06 APRIL 2026 (VANUATU DAILY POST) — The Vanuatu Taekwondo Team has delivered a great performance at the recent Oceania Taekwondo Championships held in Australia, securing three medals and reinforcing the nation’s growing strength in the sport.
Competing against some of the region’s toughest athletes, Team Vanuatu showcased determination and skill to achieve multiple podium finishes during last week’s competition, widely regarded as the premier taekwondo event in Oceania.
In the Junior Division, Gama Kaliatman claimed a bronze medal in the -68 kg category, demonstrating strong technical ability and resilience throughout the tournament.
The Senior Division brought further success for Vanuatu.
Clement Onggosanusi earned a silver medal in the -58 kg category, while Kalfau Holmes Kalotrip secured bronze in the -87 kg division.
Beyond the podium finishes, these results carry added significance, as the points earned will contribute to the athletes’ international rankings and support their qualification for future global competitions.
The Oceania Championships attract elite competitors from across the region, providing a high level of competition and valuable international exposure.
Despite the challenges, Vanuatu’s athletes rose to the occasion with confidence and discipline.
The team was guided by Master Sang Cha, who praised the athletes’ achievements and highlighted the broader progress of the national programme.
“Our team achieved a great finish in our recent competition,” he said.
“This result represents significant progress for the programme as we continue our dedicated preparations for both the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles and the 2032 Olympic Games in Brisbane.
We are encouraged by this momentum and look forward to building on this success in our upcoming training phases.”
The strong showing marks a positive step forward for taekwondo in Vanuatu, signaling continued development and ambition as the team sets its sights on future international success…. PACNEWS
FIJI – SWIMMING: FBC SPORTS PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 06 Apr 2026
McCaig balances demands ahead of Oceania champs
SUVA, 06 APRIL 2026 (FBC SPORTS) — Balancing work, school, and elite-level training is no easy task, but Fiji rep Hansel McCaig is embracing the challenge as he builds towards the upcoming Oceania Swimming Championship.
With just four weeks remaining before the regional meet, McCaig admits his preparation has been demanding, as he juggles multiple commitments alongside his time in the pool.
Despite the tight schedule, the experienced swimmer remains focused, stressing that effective time management has been key to maintaining consistency in his training.
As one of the senior figures in Fiji’s swimming ranks, McCaig is also encouraged by the rising level of talent coming through the system.
He says it has been rewarding to watch young swimmers develop over the years, with many now making the transition from age-group competitions to the Open division.
Having known some of the emerging swimmers since they were just five or six years old, McCaig believes the steady progression reflects a bright future for the sport in Fiji.
He adds that the improving standard each year is a positive sign for the country’s prospects on the regional stage.
With preparations intensifying ahead of the Oceania Championship, McCaig is urging fellow athletes facing similar challenges to stay disciplined, noting that managing time effectively is crucial to balancing responsibilities while pursuing sporting goals.
The competition starts on the 8th of next month to the 13th in Suva…. PACNEWS
