In this bulletin:
1. RUGBY — Senirusi Seruvakula steps in as Acting Coach as Fiji Rugby parts ways with Byrne
2. RUGBY — Seruvakula eyes Fijian flair revival with Flying Fijians
3. RUGBY — Mataele, Nasova return as Drua reshuffle for Crusaders clash
4. RUGBY LEAGUE — PNG Chiefs Dream Team
5. RUGBY LEAGUE — Chammas defends PNG Chiefs head coach choice
6. RUGBY LEAGUE — PNG Chiefs coach Willie given powers to choose assistants, Development of youth takes centre stage
7. FOOTBALL — CIFA development officer selected for FIFA leadership programme
8. RUGBY LEAGUE — No holding back: Finefeuiaki unfurls to find career-best form
9. RUGBY — Lomax confirmed for Western Force debut against Queensland Reds
10. SPORT — Commonwealth debate examines sport’s role in promoting equality and inclusion
FIJI – RUGBY: PACNEWS PACNEWS: Thu 02 Apr 2026
Senirusi Seruvakula steps in as Acting Coach as Fiji Rugby parts ways with Byrne
SUVA, 02 APRIL 2026 (PACNEWS)—Fiji Rugby Union has appointed Senirusi Seruvakula as Acting Head Coach of the Flying Fijians following the immediate departure of Mick Byrne.
Seruvakula, a seasoned figure in Fijian rugby, takes over the national side with a strong track record at both domestic and international level. His appointment signals continuity, having been part of recent successes for Fiji on the global stage.
He was a member of the coaching team that guided Fiji to historic wins over England at Twickenham and Australia at the last Rugby World Cup. He also led the Fijiana 15s to their first-ever Rugby World Cup qualification and coached Fiji to victory over the Barbarians to win the Kilik Cup in 2019.
At club level, Seruvakula coached the Fiji Drua to the 2018 National Rugby Championship title, further cementing his reputation as one of the country’s top rugby minds.
The coaching change comes after FRU confirmed Byrne’s departure by mutual agreement.
“Following discussions about the future direction of the Flying Fijian program, both parties concluded that it is in the best interests of Fiji Rugby to part ways,” the union said.
FRU Chief Executive Koli Sewabu acknowledged Byrne’s contribution.
“Mick has been fully committed to his role and remains dedicated to the players and staff,” Sewabu said.
“Out of respect for the team and to ensure the programme can continue to the new direction that Fiji Rugby has set for the future, Mick and Fiji Rugby has agreed to part ways so FRU can move forward.”
The union thanked Byrne for his service, highlighting his role in building the current squad and strengthening the national programme.
“We acknowledge the foundation he has helped build. Under his guidance, from the Fijian Drua to the Flying Fijians, we have seen growth, resilience, and a commitment to the white jersey that will serve us well moving forward. These are not simply moments in a season, but pillars for our future success,” said Sewabu.
Byrne said coaching Fiji had been a privilege.
“It has been an honour to work with the Flying Fijians players and staff. And before that the Drua players and staff. I have been overwhelmed by the support of ‘the world’s best’ Fiji fans during my 5-year involvement— their warmth and welcome have meant a great deal to me. I remain fully committed to the game and wish Fiji Rugby every success moving forward,” Byrne said.
FRU said interim coaching arrangements are now in place, with Seruvakula leading the team while the process to appoint a permanent head coach gets underway…..PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY: FBC SPORTS PACNEWS: Thu 02 Apr 2026
Seruvakula eyes Fijian flair revival with Flying Fijians
SUVA, 02 APRIL 2026 (FBC SPORTS)—Newly appointed Flying Fijians interim head coach Senirusi Seruvakula has described his appointment as a long-awaited moment in his coaching career, thanking stakeholders for the confidence shown in him.
He acknowledged the responsibility that comes with leading one of Fiji Rugby’s most followed teams, saying it is a “big job” with “big shoes to fill” as he steps into the role.
Seruvakula also confirmed he is already balancing national duties while continuing his work with the development pathway as the Sportsworld Fiji Under-20 side prepares for an overseas tour.
“It’s a big job, big shoes to fill, and I’m so grateful for the opportunity you’ve given me. My main focus is to strengthen the system that’s already in place and play like real Fijians, bringing excitement to the people of Fiji.”
He is currently in camp with the national Under-20 squad, who depart tomorrow for a three-match tour of Australia, where they will face Australia U20, Japan U20 and the Australian Barbarians, before returning on the 12th.
Seruvakula says the tour provides an important opportunity to continue building depth in the national pathway while also allowing him to engage with players and staff as he prepares for the Flying Fijians’ long-term direction.
He adds that discussions with Fiji Rugby management, including the General Manager and coaching staff, will be key in shaping the team’s future identity, with a strong emphasis on returning to a free-flowing, Fijian style of rugby that excites fans….PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY: FBC SPORTS PACNEWS: Thu 02 Apr 2026
Mataele, Nasova return as Drua reshuffle for Crusaders clash
CHRISTCHURCH, 02 APRIL 2026 (FBC SPORTS)—The Swire Shipping Fijian Drua have made key changes ahead of their Round 8 Shop N Save Super Rugby Pacific showdown against the Crusaders, with Manasa Mataele and Joji Nasova returning to the matchday 23.
Head coach Glen Jackson has turned to the experienced duo to fill the wings, replacing Ponipate Loganimasi and Epeli Momo, who are sidelined through injury.
There is also a boost for young talent, with Philip Baselala earning his first selection of the season, while Issak Fines-Leleiwasa takes over the halfback role from injured co-captain Frank Lomani.
Up front, Haereiti Hetet, Zuriel Togiatama and Mesake Doge form the front row, while skipper Isoa Nasilasila partners Joseva Tamani in the second row.
The loose forward trio sees Etonia Waqa at blindside, Kitione Salawa at openside, and Elia Canakaivata retaining the number eight jersey.
In the backs, Fines-Leleiwasa links up with Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula in the halves, while Mataele and Nasova provide width on the wings.
Iosefo Namoce keeps his spot at inside centre alongside Virimi Vakatawa, with Ilaisa Droasese named at fullback.
On the bench, Sairusi Ravudi, Emosi Tuqiri and Peni Ravai provide front-row cover, with Mesake Vocevoce and Isoa Tuwai backing up the forwards. Baselala, Kemu Valetini and Isikeli Rabitu round out the reserves.
The Drua will be looking to overcome their injury setbacks and deliver a strong performance against one of the competition’s most formidable sides.
They meet the Crusaders at 6.05pm on Friday….PACNEWS
PNG – RUGBY LEAGUE: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS: Thu 02 Apr 2026
PNG Chiefs Dream Team
PORT MORESBY, 02 APRIL 2026 (THE NATIONAL)—With the country’s PNG Chiefs set to enter the NRL in 2028, rugby league fans and pundits alike have guessed, speculated and dreamed of the makeup of the squad for the franchise which will be based in Port Moresby.
Several questions have been answered already with Willie Peters named this week to be the club’s inaugural coach while general manager Michael Chammas and board chairman Lorna McPherson were announced earlier this year.
Other questions like the team colours, logo and look are yet to be unveiled. But for now going forward, recruitment of players will be at the forefront of fans’ minds.
Here at The National, a group of our editors and senior staff – Francis Uliau, Peter Pusal, Charles Moi, Henry Pambuai, Isaiah Igish and Michael Philip – have matched wits to come up with a team they think could be the one assembled over the course of the next 18 months.
Alex Johnston is the editorial group’s consensus pick for captain of the Chiefs.
The highest profile PNG player in the NRL, a quiet leader who exudes team-first vibes but at the same time is Australia’s most prolific try-scorer with 214 tries and counting and veteran of 246 NRL games, a premiership winner well-respected by teammates and opponents alike.
While not a guarantee, it makes sense that the inaugural Chiefs club captain should be someone with ties to the country. Johnston fits the bill.
Our pick for assistant coach is Ben Teo, formerly with defending premiers, the Brisbane Broncos, until his resignation last week.
Teo has gone down the path of coaching and already has experience with representative coaching (Qld U19s) as well as in the Q-Cup with the Redcliffe Dolphins.
The readers will also be invited to take part in this exercise of picking their side in the coming days, weeks and months. For the time being, this is how we have it:
PNG Chiefs Dream Team:
1. ALEX JOHNSTON (C)
2. SELWYN COBBO
3. ZAC LAYBUTT
4. JESSE RAMIEN
5. XAVIER COATES
6. CAMERON MUNSTER
7. LACHLAN LAM
8. TOBY RUDOLF
9. EDWIN IPAPE
10. PATRICK CARRIGAN
11. ROBERT MATHIAS
12. JACK DE BELIN
13. COOPER BAI
Reserves
14. GAIRO VORO
15. JUDAH RIMBU
16. JACOB ALICK-WIENCKE
17. EPEL KAPINIAS
18. ZEBEDY KIP
19. LIAM HORNE
WILLIE PETERS (Coach)
BEN TEO (Assistant coach)…PACNEWS
PNG – RUGBY LEAGUE: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS: Thu 02 Apr 2026
Chammas defends PNG Chiefs head coach choice
PORT MORESBY, 02 APRIL 2026 (THE NATIONAL)—PNG Chiefs head coach Willie Peters is not a last-minute choice.
Club officials revealed this week that talks began well before Peters’ recent high-profile coaching success on the international stage.
Chiefs general manager Michael Chammas revealed in Port Moresby on Monday that the club had already made contact with Peters before the World Club Challenge, after closely monitoring his coaching progress and growing reputation.
“We had conversations beforehand. I made the call to Willie to see if he was interested, and this was before the World Club Challenge,” Chammas said.
He said Peters immediately showed strong interest in the Papua New Guinea Chiefs role and made it clear he wanted the job.
“From the outset, he said he’d love to coach the PNG Chiefs.”
He said Peters’ successful coaching record last year made him an ideal candidate for the role, especially as he continues to pursue ambitions in the NRL.
“The fact that he said, ‘no matter what comes up, I want the Chiefs job’, says a lot about his position and what we are building here,” Chammas said.
He said Peters’ decision shows belief in the long-term vision of the club as it builds towards its future in the NRL….PACNEWS
PNG – RUGBY LEAGUE: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS: Thu 02 Apr 2026
PNG Chiefs coach Willie given powers to choose assistants, Development of youth takes centre stage
PORT MORESBY, 02 APRIL 2026 ( THE NATIONAL)—The Papua New Guinea Chiefs will give incoming head coach Willie Peters full control to choose his own coaching assistants as the club begins shaping its backroom staff ahead of its 2028 National Rugby League (NRL) entry.
This was confirmed by franchise general manager Michael Chammas on Monday in Port Moresby.
Chammas said the decision was made in agreement with the NRL, ensuring Peters can appoint people he trusts and works closely with on a daily basis.
“One thing I was adamant on in speaking to the NRL is we want to give Willie the ability to pick his staff,” Chammas said. “These are people he’s going to be working closely with, not just professionally, but also living and building the team together in PNG.”
He explained that the next few months would be important as Peters takes time to carefully decide on his preferred assistants and support staff.
“Over the next couple of months, Willie will have a good hard think about the kind of people he wants,” Chammas said.
Chammas added that interest in the roles is already strong, with many coaches reportedly contacting the club since the announcement.
“I’m sure his phone is already ringing hot with people putting their hand up for the job. It’s only been 48 hours since we got the deal done,” he said.
The Chiefs say they will now step back and allow Peters time to finalise his coaching structure before making official appointments.
Meanwhile, the PNG Chiefs are putting youth development at the centre of their long-term plans, with club leaders confident the next generation of local players will shape the team’s future success.
General manager Michael Chammas said incoming coach Willie Peters stood out not just for his experience, but for his strong focus on developing young Papua New Guinean players.
Chammas revealed that Peters was passionate about building proper pathways for local talent, stressing that creating the right structure for junior development is critical over the next few years.
“He made it clear that we must get the pathways right for the kids and future players. That really stood out for me,” Chammas said.
He added that the club is already advanced in its planning, saying the Chiefs are “three years into the journey” of building a strong foundation ahead of their 2028 entry.
Chiefs boss Lorna McPherson also praised the work already being done behind the scenes, highlighting development efforts led byPNGRFL head of elite pathways Joey Grima.
COOKS – FOOTBALL: COOK ISLANDS NEWS PACNEWS: Thu 02 Apr 2026
CIFA development officer selected for FIFA leadership programme
RAROTONGA, 02 APRIL 2026 (COOK ISLANDS NEWS)—Cook Islands Football Association (CIFA) is proud to announce that Teretia Teinaki, women’s football development officer, has been selected to take part in the prestigious FIFA Women in Football Leadership Programme for 2026.
This competitive programme aims to increase female representation in football’s decision-making bodies worldwide and equip participants with the skills and experience needed to take on leadership roles.
Running from January to November 2026, the programme offers a combination of online and in-person workshops, mentoring sessions and tailored courses at the FIFA Campus, providing Teinaki with key leadership insights and practical experience.
The programme will take place in two parts: the first in Paris, France, this April, and the second in Morocco in November, allowing Teinaki to engage with global football leaders and peers from across the world.
CIFA’s technical director, Matt Campbell, praised Teinaki’s selection.
“This is an outstanding opportunity for Teretia, who has been brilliant for CIFA since taking on the role last year,” Campbell said. “This course is part of the FIFA Women’s Development Programmes that we now have access to, following the launch of our Women’s Football Strategic Plan in January 2025.”
“The next Women’s Strategic Plan is currently underway and is set for launch in February 2027, with a long-term vision running through 2031. It’s an exciting time for women’s football, and we have the perfect person in Teretia to lead the way.”
CIFA congratulates Teinaki on this remarkable achievement and looks forward to seeing the knowledge, leadership and experience she gains from the programme further strengthen women’s football in the Cook Islands….PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL PACNEWS: Thu 02 Apr 2026
No holding back: Finefeuiaki unfurls to find career-best form
BRISBANE, 02 APRIL 2026 (NRL)—Dolphins backrower Kulikefu Finefeuiaki is reaping the benefits of going ‘all in’ this season with competition for spots keeping the Origin hopeful full of motivation.
The Queensland Maroons hopeful was a standout in his last game, with 222 metres from 20 runs, earning himself a Dally M vote, despite his team losing 26-12 to the Broncos.
Finefeuiaki said advice from coach Kristian Woolf and star halfback Isaiya Katoa had helped him find another level to his game this year.
“(In) previous years I reckon I’ve been holding back in a few games, so I reckon this year I took it up a notch.
“There’s always a little kick from Issy too, and during the game he’s the one that’s been telling me to take backfield carriers which has helped my game as well, so I’ll give credits to Issy there.
“He’s been helping me, even though we’re the same age, he’s got more experience than me, so whatever he says to me, I just take it on the board and try to do what he says …
“Woolfy always wants me to get my hands on the ball and just carry hard, so if I do my job for the team and I carry hard, I feel like I get us on the front foot, so I just got to keep doing that.
“We’ve got plenty of good back rowers in our team … we learn off each other, we do extras at the end and my spot’s not guaranteed and no other spot’s guaranteed in the team.
“We have all just got to work hard and do our job, then whoever gets picked gets picked, and if you don’t, then it is what it is.”
This week, the Dolphins host the Manly Sea Eagles who who’ll be looking for fresh start under new coach and favourite son Kieran Foran.
Finefeuiaki said the side were focused on themselves and fixing up the areas that let them down in their loss to the Broncos in a hard-fought ‘Battle for Brisbane’ derby.
“I reckon we just don’t think about it too much, this week we’re just focusing on us,” Finefeuiaki said.
“I know they lost their coach there and they’re going to come out firing, so, we’ve just got to be up for the game and that’s going to be a good game at Kayo.
“I reckon it just comes down to our discipline.
“We let Broncs off the hook a few times in the game and just gave them more possession down their end and they scored points off it …
“I reckon if we just clean up our discipline and our attack inside the goal line, I reckon we just need to clean up and I reckon we’ll be alright.”
While the first game at Accor Stadium is still a couple of months away, it’s never too early for punters to speculate on origin selection, with the Tonga international’s strong early season form turning heads.
A member of Bill Slater’s extended squad last year, Finefeuiaki – who is also eligible for Samoa at this year’s Rugby League World Cup – said taking the next step would be a dream come true.
“It would mean the world,” Finefeuiaki said.
“Moving over from New Zealand when I was 11-12, I’ve been watching Origin growing up …
“A special player to watch was probably Greg Inglis, the way he played Origin and the way he took on opponents and if I get to put on that jersey one day, it’d be a dream come true.
“But right now I’m just focused on playing good footy for the Dolphins and whatever happens down the track, happens,” he said……PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU PACNEWS: Thu 02 Apr 2026
Lomax confirmed for Western Force debut against Queensland Reds
BRISBANE, 02 APRIL 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—Zac Lomax will make his professional Rugby debut on Saturday after being named for the Western Force to face the Queensland Reds at Suncorp Stadium.
Lomax will come off the bench, having joined the group last month following his move from the NRL.
The outside back joined in the warm-ups with the Force before last week’s defeat to the Chiefs, with Suncorp Stadium a familiar environment for the 26-year-old.
Lomax made his international debut at the venue in 2024 against Tonga, playing three games for Australia, and earlier that year, he helped NSW to a State of Origin victory at the ground.
“He’s a natural athlete. He’s big, strong, fast and powerful so we’ve done a bit of work with him since he got here and he’s very confident,” coach Simon Cron said.
“We’re in a position now where I think it’s a great opportunity for him to play coming off the bench so it gives him a chance to work his way into the game.”
The impending debut of the cross-code star is one of several changes for Cron’s side, who also welcome Dylan Pietsch back for the first time in 2026.
The Wallaby has been sidelined with a plantar fasciitis issue in his foot, named to start on the wing.
Former Munster flanker Jack Daly will also debut for the club, named to start after a knee injury to Carlo Tizzano, who is set to be ruled out for several weeks.
“We’re thinking it’ll be a couple of weeks…Carlo was playing some great Rugby so it’s unfortunate but we have to have a squad that can handle losing some of our top guys,” Cron added.
Tizzano is joined on the sidelines by Jeremy Williams as he goes through HIA protocols, leaving Nick Champion de Crespigny to skipper the team.
For the Reds, they have also welcomed back Test experience in the form of hooker Matt Faessler.
Faessler has missed the past four games with a knee injury and was named to the bench.
Flyhalf Carter Gordon has also been cleared to return after a lower leg issue, partnering with Kalani Thomas in the halves.
Teenager Treyvon Pritchard earns his first start, while Wallaby Zane Nonggorr has been added to the bench.
Meanwhile, Tom Lynagh misses out, with the flyhalf ruled out due to illness.
“It’s good news to have a player like ‘Faess’ returning with his experience. The competition we have between three quality hookers is fantastic,” coach Les Kiss said.
“I know Faess is champing at the bit to contribute.
“Treyvon has certainly shown what he is capable of in his minutes off the bench this season. It’s only scratching the surface of his potential and he gets to take another step in his learning with experienced Wallabies around him.
“t means again that we have three strong backline players to finish the game from the bench with Louis, Harry and Tim Ryan.”
REDS (1-15): Aidan Ross, Josh Nasser, Nick Bloomfield, Seru Uru, Lukhan Salakaia-Loto, Joe Brial, Fraser McReight (c), Harry Wilson, Kalani Thomas, Carter Gordon, Treyvon Pritchard, Hunter Paisami, Josh Flook, Filipo Daugunu, Jock Campbell
Replacements: Matt Faessler, Jeffery Toomaga-Allen, Zane Nonggorr, Hamish Muller, Vaiuta Latu, Louis Werchon, Harry McLaughlin-Phillips, Tim Ryan
FORCE (1-15): Tom Robertson, Brandon Paenga-Amosa, Misinale Epenisa, Franco Molina, Darcy Swain, Nick Champion de Crespigny (c), Jack Daly, Vaiolini Ekuasi, Henry Robertson, Ben Donaldson, Darby Lancaster, Bayley Kuenzle, George Bridge, Dylan Pietsch, Mac Grealy
Replacements: Nic Dolly, Sef Fa’agase, Harry Johnson-Holmes, Lopeti Faifua, Will Harris, Nathan Hastie, Kurtley Beale, Zac Lomax…PACNEWS
PAC – SPORT: COMSEC PACNEWS: Thu 02 Apr 2026
Commonwealth debate examines sport’s role in promoting equality and inclusion
LONDON, 02 APRIL 2026 (COMSEC)—As the world gears up for global sporting events, the Commonwealth Secretariat convened an annual debate today to examine how sport can bring communities together and promote greater equality across countries.
The 10th Commonwealth Debate on Sport and Sustainable Development brought together ministers, senior officials, high commissioners, athletes, young people, academics, sports advocates and Commonwealth accredited organisations to explore how inclusive sporting practices can advance equality. In particular, discussions focused on how sport contributes to the relevant Sustainable Development Goal targets, especially on health and well-being, reduced inequalities and promoting inclusive societies.
Co-organised with Commonwealth Sport, the debate took place at the Secretariat’s headquarters in London ahead of the International Day of Sport for Development and Peace which is observed every year on 6 April.
Marking its 10th edition, the debate saw two teams of experts to explore whether: “Sporting equality is best achieved when Para and non-Para games are staged simultaneously.”
This motion delved into whether staging para and non-para games together as part of the same competition, while maintaining separate categories, would better support equality and inclusion as opposed to holding them separately altogether.
Opening the debate, Commonwealth Deputy Secretary-General (Programmes) Tanmaya Lal, said: Sport provides a unique opportunity and avenue for the young, especially women and girls to develop confidence, overcome social barriers and inspire those around them. Sportspersons are often role models not only in their communities but nationally or even globally. They represent courage, strength, sacrifice, determination, and the will to succeed against all odds.
The Commonwealth has a long history of sports as a bridge. The International Day of Sports for Development and Peace focuses attention on the much broader significance of sports in human society – in development, in creating jobs, establishing social inclusion, and facilitating peace.”
This year’s debate came ahead of the 12th Commonwealth Sports Ministers Meeting (12CSMM) and the 23rd Edition of the Commonwealth Games, which will be held in Glasgow from 23 July to 2 August. Around 3,000 athletes from 74 Commonwealth Games Associations are expected to compete for 215 gold medals across 10 sports. It will also be the first time that Para athletes and non-Para athletes compete at the same event and time, but in separate categories.
Martin Reynolds, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, Commonwealth Sport highlighted the enduring legacy and evolving future of the Commonwealth Games.
“This annual debate to acknowledge International Day of Sport for Development and Peace continues to challenge, inspire, and, importantly, hold all of us to account on the role that sport must play in building a more equitable and sustainable world. With Glasgow 2026 fast approaching, we are proud to have the largest ever Para sport programme in Games history, advancing our belief that equality in sport must be seen, supported and celebrated at the highest level.”
The debate was moderated by World Champion and four‑time Paralympian Stef Reid MBE PLY. Now a respected sports broadcaster and inspirational speaker, she underscored the transformative impact of sport, saying: “Sport matters because it changes lives. I know this because it changed mine. My own journey has been transformed by the opportunities available in para sport, opportunities that may not have existed had I been born just a decade or two earlier. I had the opportunity to play because people and organisations were already having conversations long before I was born about how to maximise the reach of sport. This debate is an important and fun way of continuing that work. Sport is powerful, and it is vital that we keep it firmly on the agenda.”
Arguing for the motion: Jennie Wong, Project Manager and Equity Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Lead, Loughborough University, Noel Thatcher MBE, Six-time Paralympian Great Britain, Mayank Sethi, International Relations Masters degree student, University of Birmingham, Jaiden Caldeira, Great Britain Para table tennis player
Arguing against the motion: Rob Aubry, British Para Swimming Head Coach, Aquatics GB,Jemima Biodun-Bello, Former competitive basketball athlete ,Roberto Reid, Lecturer, University of East London, Shae Thakker, Great Britain Para table tennis athlete Since 2016, the debate has brought together ministers, officials, athletes, academics, advocates and accredited organisations to examine the emerging issues and opportunities in the world of sport….PACNEWS