In this bulletin:
1. RUGBY — Meyer was top pick for Flying Fijians job in 2023
2. RUGBY LEAGUE — FNRL faces scrutiny after chairman’s abuse claim
3. RUGBY LEAGUE — K7.4million surplus for PNGRFL
4. FOOTBALL — OFC Pro League : Welcome to Fiji
5. RUGBY — Australia U20s lock in side to face Fiji U20 at Coffs Coast Festival of Rugby
6. CRICKET — Former Indian cricketer Sanjeev Sharma backs Fiji’s T20 qualifier chances
7. RUGBY LEAGUE — Ikin welcomes ‘competitive tension’ from CQ NRL bid
8. RUGBY — Opinon: Review is the way forward for the Drua
9. RUGBY LEAGUE — Emotion-charged Olakau’atu finds form as rep return beckons
10. RUGBY LEAGUE — ‘Want your kids to be happy’: Cleary’s vision for future League Stars
11. OLYMPICS — ‘Shocked’ fans question hidden charge for LA28 tickets
FIJI – RUGBY: FBC PORTS PACNEWS: Wed 08 Apr 2026
Meyer was top pick for Flying Fijians job in 2023
SUVA, 08 APRIL 2026 (FBC SPORTS)—Former Springboks coach Heyneke Meyer was the preferred candidate to take over the Fiji Water Flying Fijians coaching role after the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
This was revealed by Fiji Rugby Union Chair, John Sanday, to FBC Sports a week after Senirusi Seruvakula was announced as interim coach.
Sanday told FBC Sports that Meyer, Mick Byrne, and Senirusi Seruvakula were shortlisted for the position after Simon Raiwalui stepped down following the World Cup in France.
He says Meyer was strongly considered for the role, but the FRU was unable to meet some of his conditions and salary expectations, which ultimately influenced the decision.
As a result, the board appointed Byrne as head coach at the time.
Sanday said with Byrne now stepping down, the union had to move quickly and appoint Seruvakula as interim coach, as he was already part of the previous shortlist.
He said that time constraints were a key factor, with the 2026 Nations Championship just months away……PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY LEAGUE: FIJI SUN PACNEWS: Wed 08 Apr 2026
FNRL faces scrutiny after chairman’s abuse claim
SUVA, 08 APRIL 2026 (FIJI SUN)–With the Rugby League World Cup less than seven months away, the situation at the Fiji National Rugby League (FNRL) has gone from bad to worse.
The Fiji Police Force will confirm today of a report concerning FNRL’s chairman Rajesh Singh, who was alleged racially abused by some FNRL office staff.
The was confirmed to SUNsports yesterday by Police spokesman, Sergeant Wame Bautolu.
It is alleged that Singh was to hand out suspension letters to certain FNRL office staff to allow for an investigation to take place. The investigation was due to findings highlighted in an independent report by Pherrus Financial Services.
Trouble was brewing when Pherrus Financial Services was assigned to conduct their investigation at the FNRL headquarters.
In an email dated 13 February, this year, Fiji National Sports Commission (FNSC) executive chairman Peter Mazey expressed his concern to the FNRL board that their staff was obstructing and not providing requested information and documentation to the Pherrus staff.
He further indicated that if Pherrus withdraws then the situation at FNRL would be referred to the Minister of Justice and Fiji Independent Commission of Corruption (FICAC).
Mazey also confirmed that a copy of the Pherrus report would be provided to the Australian High Commission as to ensure protection of future (DFAT) Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade investments in FNRL.
The Pherrus report has been completed and endorsed by the FNRL board as they will take the matter to the next step.
When contacted, Singh claimed he was racially abused in front of two Police officers who advised him to report the case and they would be his witness.
“Yes, I was giving out suspension letters to some (NRL) staff so investigation could be carried out and also to other staff members whose work contract have expired in 2023 but are still on the FNRL payroll, how can that be?” he alleged.
“Also, we must note that the International Rugby League (IRL) and National Rugby League (NRL) don’t condone racial abuse.
“I’ll also lodge my case with them as we don’t condone racist people.”
Assistant Minister of Youth and Sports Aliki Bia told SUNsports that he was aware of the financial shortfalls faced by FNRL.
“The government don’t want to be seen as interfering in all these national sporting organisations,” Bia said.
“If government interferes, one disadvantage is that the international sporting organisations will withdraw all its funding.”
Bia added that Government does not wish to intervene in the internal affairs of the NSO’s despite these organisations receiving government grant.
“The Fiji National Sports Commission is mandated to look after these sporting organisations in terms of administration, policies and regulations.”
Bia said he was not aware of reports that certain FNRL staff members hurled racial abuse against FNRL chairman Rajesh Singh.
“If it’s a police report then we’ll let the investigation take its due course,” he added….PACNEWS
PNG – RUGBY LEAGUE: THE NATIONAL PACNEWS: Wed 08 Apr 2026
K7.4million surplus for PNGRFL
PORT MORESBY, 08 APRIL 2026 (THE NATIONAL) —Strong financial performance and up-to-date audit have resulted in the Papua New Guinea Rugby Football League (PNGRFL) declaring an operating surplus of K7.4 million(US$1.71 million) from a total revenue of K35.4 million(US$8.19 million) and a net asset base of K33.4 million (US$7.73 million).
Assuring stakeholders at its annual general meeting (AGM) in Mt Hagen, Western Highlands, on 28 March that its legacy tax matters and backlog audits had been resolved, PNGRFL leaders said such hard work has resulted in further strengthening financial accountability and transparency.
Chief executive officer Stanley Hondina told the AGM: “PNGRFL will continue to strengthen its revenue base while investing in development and pathways to create more opportunities for our people,” while acknowledging the continued support of the Australian government, funding partners and long-standing sponsors. Their investment is crucial for our growth.”
Noting the increase in the compliant affiliated leagues from 37 to 63, reflecting strengthened governance standards and improved alignment nationwide, chairman Sandis Tsaka added: “The growth in compliant league numbers reflects stronger governance, better systems and the commitment of our community and game development teams across the country.
“We are building for the future … strengthening pathways, supporting the PNG Hunters program, and creating opportunities for the next generation.”
Participation in the game continues to rise, with statistics showing more than 15,000 registered players.
Tsaka said the launch of the National Youth Competition (NYC) Under-19s has further strengthened the pathway to elite rugby league.
“The real work of our game happens at the community level, where we have focused our investment,” Tsaka said. “Strengthening our presence on the ground is translating into growth and stronger engagement nationwide … there is more work to do.
“Our focus, our role, is to provide opportunities for players to progress from community rugby league through to academies, national competitions, and elite programmes.”…PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS: Wed 08 Apr 2026
OFC Pro League : Welcome to Fiji
SUVA, 08 APRIL 2026 (OFC)—After a three-week hiatus for the international window, the Pro League returns for Round 5 in the beautiful Melanesian nation of Fiji.
Known for its crystal-clear waters and coral reefs, warm hospitality, and success on the rugby sevens circuit, Fiji will welcome its nation’s first professional football club – Bula FC – to home soil for the first time, when the fifth round of the Pro League kicks off across two venues on its shores.
Following a slow start to the competition, Bula were the only club to win both of their fixtures in Round 4, including a dramatic win over South Island United – pushing them up into third on the table ahead of their home round.
They’ll play all three of their Round 5 fixtures at the newly refurbished 4R Electrical Govind Park in Ba, traditionally a hotbed for football in Fiji.
The twelve Round 5 fixtures will be split evenly across Ba and HFC Bank Stadium in Suva, with two rescheduled Round 3 fixtures due to be played in Ba at the end of the round – giving all eight clubs at least three games in Fiji.
Venues
HFC Bank Stadium in Suva reguarly hosts the Fijian Drua in Super Rugby – Fiji’s only other professional sports club aside from Bula FC.
Matchdays hosted: 11th, 14th, & 17th April
Constructed in 1951, HFC Bank Stadium in Suva is Fiji’s premier multi-sport venue and has hosted numerous international and national events.
Used for a variety of international rugby league, rugby union, and football events, HFC Bank Stadium holds a capacity of just over 15,000. The venue regularly hosts Fijian Drua games in Super Rugby, and national team fixtures for both rugby union and rugby league.
It also has prior experience with OFC competitions, hosting the two most recent OFC Women’s Nations Cup finals in 2022 and 2025, the OFC Men’s Champions League final in 2015, and six group stage games at the OFC Men’s Nations Cup 2024.
4R Electrical Govind Park has recently re-opened after damage from Cyclone Winston in 2015.
4R Electrical Govind Park
Matchdays hosted: 12th, 15th, 18th, & 21st April
Redeveloped in time for the start of a new professional era for football in Oceania, Govind Park in Ba seats just over 13,000 fans and will be hosting its first major international event in over a decade when the Pro League arrives.
Traditionally a prominent venue for football in Fiji, Govind Park formerly hosted multiple national team matches, including OFC qualifying matches for FIFA World Cup 2010, and domestic competitions.
The venue underwent a renovation in 2016 following damage inflicted by tropical Cyclone Winston and only recently re-opened in 2025. It is now improved to include a modern international-standard pitch, four upgraded changing rooms, media, medical and commentary suites built to professional standards, expanded spectator capacity, safer access, and inclusive design.
Known for being a football crazy town, expect fans in Ba to get behind their new professional team, Bula FC, who play all three of their matches at the venue.
Great moments in Fijian football history
Fiji’s all-time top goal-scorer delivered one of his nation’s most memorable moments at the 2016 Olympic Games, Roy Krishna scoring Fiji’s first goal at the event during a 5-1 defeat to Mexico in their second group game.
The talismanic striker stuck his head on a long ball in-behind to give Fiji a shock lead against Mexico inside ten minutes at Arena Fonte Nova in Salvador, sending the neutral Brazilian fans into raptures.
Having won the 2015 Pacific Games to qualify for the world’s global sporting showpiece in Brazil, Krishna was selected as one of three over-age players for the men’s U-23 football event, scoring Fiji’s only goal. They lost their other group games at the event to powerhouses Germany and South Korea.
Krishna will be in the spotlight again during Round 5 of the OFC Pro League when he captains Bula FC in front of his adoring home fans.
U-20s stun Honduras for first win on global stage
The Fiji U-20 Men’s national team stunned the world of football when they picked up the nation’s first and only win to date at a FIFA event – defeating Honduras 3-0 in a FIFA U-20 World Cup 2015™ group stage match.
Qualifying for the tournament as champions of the OFC U-20 Men’s Championship for the first time in 2014, Fiji travelled to the global finals in New Zealand as major underdogs. They lost the opening game of their campaign 8-1 to Germany but responded by defeating Honduras 3-0 in their second group game in Christchurch.
Kulas twice go close at OFC Women’s Nations Cup
Fiji have twice finished runners-up at the OFC Women’s Nations Cup in consecutive editions in 2018 and 2022, the closest they’ve come to winning the senior women’s continental crown since playing its inaugural edition in 1983.
They recorded their largest ever international win over Tonga during the 2018 campaign, before falling 8-0 to New Zealand in the final. Hosting the tournament in 2022 they reached the final again, but this time fell 2-1 to Papua New Guinea.
The Kulas are currently participating in the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2027™ Oceania Qualifiers and will also be in action this weekend during Round 3 in New Zealand.
AUST – RUGBY: RUGBY.COM.AU PACNEWS: Wed 08 Apr 2026
Australia U20s lock in side to face Fiji U20 at Coffs Coast Festival of Rugby
COFFS HARBOUR, 08 APRIL 2026 (RUGBY.COM.AU)—Australia U20s coach Chris Whitaker has named a 27-player squad for the opening game of the year against Fiji U20 at the Coffs Coast Festival of Rugby in Kempsey on Wednesday.
Norths flanker Marshall Le Maitre skippers the side, coming off claiming Rookie of the Year in the Shute Shield in 2025.
He partners Toby Brial and Cooper Eagle in the back row, with Brial one of several returning stars from last year to start.
This includes lock Isaac Fonua and winger Cooper Watters, who made his Australia Sevens debut earlier in the year.
Brumbies flyer Riley Whitfield and Waratah Louis Fenwicke join Watters in the back three, with Sam Blank and Jonty Fowler named in the halves.
Queensland Reds midfielder Frankie Goldsbrough has been cleared to play at inside centre, partnering with fellow Super Rugby Pacific rookie Leo Jaques.
In the forwards, Brumbies hooker Ewald Kruger starts alongside Reds props Jacob Job and Joanh Raingiwai, with teammate Tavita Loughland completing the tight five alongside Fonua.
hitaker has named an experienced bench, with the likes of Tom Robinson, Luca Cleverley, Edwin Langi and Eli Langi all returning from last year’s U20 World Championship campaign.
They are complemented by a host of graduating Australia U18s stars, including Reds trio Kingsley Uys, Will Ross and Finn Mackay.
Treyvon Pritchard was originally named in the squad; however, he is unavailable due to Super Rugby Pacific commitments, with Nicholas Conway and Oscar Cleary also out injured.
Chayse Geros, Zach Fittler and Kenny Harris come into the squad, with Geros selected on the bench.
The match is the first of two games at the Festival of Rugby, set to play Japan U23 on April 11.
The Japan side, coached by former Wallabies boss Eddie Jones, started their year with a 48-39 win over the Fiji U20s.
Australia U20 team list v Fiji U20:
Jacob Job
Ewald Kruger
Jonah Rangiwai
Tavita Loughland
Isaac Fonua
Toby Brial
Marshall Le Maitre (c)
Cooper Eagle
Sam Blank
Jonty Fowler
Cooper Watters
Frankie Goldsbrough
Leo Jaques
Riley Whitfield
Louis Fenwicke
Substitutes
Tyler Maybery
Kingsley Uys
Harper Strachan
Edwin Langi
Jasper Asi
Will Ross
Tom Robinson
Luca Cleverley
Eli Langi
Finn Mackay
Taione Taka
Chayse Geros
Fiji U20
Esira Livicala
Osea Dasalusalu
Josh Ratulomai
Sosiceni Waqa
Apenisa Naevo
Epeli Roseruvakula
Ravuama Samo
Isoa Koroinawai (c)
Cale Maurice
Sikeli Bari
Sevuloni Satala
Anare Tabakaucoro
Maleli Nauvasi
Apete Rokosuka
Tevita Ledua
Substitutes
Itu Josaia
Marika Koroi
David Seuvou
Savenaca Qabale
Suliano Savenaca
Carter Mucunabitu
Netani Lesimaikimiatuku
Judah Draiva…PACNEWS
FIJI – CRICKET: FBC SPORTS PACNEWS: Wed 08 Apr 2026
Former Indian cricketer Sanjeev Sharma backs Fiji’s T20 qualifier chances
SUVA, 08 APRIL 2026 (FBC SPORTS)—Former Indian cricketer Sanjeev Sharma has praised the level of talent on display at the Easter Cricket Championship, expressing confidence in Fiji’s chances ahead of their upcoming international assignment.
Sharma admits he initially expected to make significant adjustments when he arrived, but was impressed after watching several matches.
“Honestly, when I travelled here, I thought there was a lot to work on, but after watching four games, I can see there is plenty of talent.”
He believes the current squad has what it takes to progress, backing them to reach the Super Six stage of the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup qualifiers.
“I feel this team deserves to qualify for the Super Six and I have full faith that we will do very well.”
Fiji is set to compete in Japan against the host nation, Japan, in a T20 World Cup qualifying tournament. Sharma acknowledged the challenge ahead but remains optimistic about the balance within the squad.
“Japan is a good team, but I believe we also have a well-balanced side.”
Looking ahead, Sharma highlighted key areas for improvement, particularly in fitness and fielding, which he says are crucial in the T20 format.
“Fitness is very important in T20 cricket, and fielding will be critical. We just need to rectify a few things.”
An 18-member squad has been selected for the campaign, with Sharma confident the experience will not only benefit the players but also contribute positively to the growth of cricket in Fiji….PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: AAP PACNEWS: Wed 08 Apr 2026
Ikin welcomes ‘competitive tension’ from CQ NRL bid
BRISBANE, 08 APRIL 2026 (AAP)—Queensland Rugby League boss Ben Ikin has backed the re-emergence of a central Queensland NRL bid and is fully supportive of a fifth NRL team in the state.
Ikin said he was encouraged by the desire of ARL Commission chairman Peter V’landys to embrace the credentials of a 20th NRL side from Queensland, with the Ipswich-based Jets’ bid in partnership with Newtown Jets the prime candidate for entry as soon as 2030.
“We absolutely back another team in Queensland because the truth of it is there is an NRL bid emerging out of central Queensland,” Ikin told AAP.
“Senior people in rugby league have told me it is happening, including people from government.
“There are a whole lot of people up there rusted onto the game the same way they are in the western corridor (of Brisbane) who would love to see an NRL team out of Rockhampton. That competitive tension is great for the game.”
Ikin said it was not beyond the realms of possibility that both CQ and the Jets would play in the NRL in future.
“Who knows? We might end up with six teams in Queensland. Just after COVID would you have expected we would be in Perth and PNG? No one would have,” he said.
“Under the game’s current leadership, growth is on the agenda because there are more participants, viewers and investments than ever.”
Queensland and Canterbury legend Jason Hetherington, who hails from Baralaba in central Queensland, was on the CQ NRL bid team when it began more than 15 years ago.
He said it was a no-brainer that the region could sustain an NRL side, with its pedigree and the backing of the resource industry.
“Central Queensland has been a breeding ground of talent for 100 years and it will be for the next 100,” Hetherington told AAP.
“I’m a realist. You don’t win comps with locals but kids will stay and not chase dreams elsewhere if we had an NRL side.
“When I was on the Maroons coaching staff with Mal Meninga, one third of the squad were from CQ. We had Dave Taylor, Ben Hunt, Matt Scott, Corey Oates, Tim Glasby, Dane Gagai and Daly Cherry-Evans and then came the likes of Cameron Munster and Harry Grant.
“I was part of the CQ NRL bid team and I still believe in it. The business plans have been done and big business and the mining sector is on side.”
The Jets bid secured $42.5 million (US$29 million) in funding to renovate North Ipswich Reserve to NRL training standard, currently in progress.
“We have designed it so we can add a high-performance centre at low cost,” Jets NRL bid chairman Steve Johnson told AAP
“The NRL side was never going to play at Ipswich other than trial games. We were always going to play at Suncorp Stadium.
“When we play in Sydney we will play in Newtown colours and we will use their magnificent facility at Henson Park after its $20 million (US$13 million) upgrade.
‘Imagine playing Bears v Jets at Henson Park.”
Johnson said more than $50 million (US$34 million) had been pledged to the Jets from a major US entity, who had invested in every major US sport and an English Premier League club, if they secured an NRL licence.
The region west of Brisbane has elite coaches and former NRL players Ben and Shane Walker in charge of Western Clydesdales in the statewide Hostplus Cup, and former Queensland star Moses Mbye captaining Ipswich Jets and working in game development. All three are vocal backers of an Ipswich-based NRL side.
“They have quality rugby league CVs and are quality people,” Ikin said.
“When they are creating pathways from that region then good things are going to follow and capture the attention of Peter V’landys, who is still open to the idea of a fifth Queensland team.” he said…. PACNEWS
AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL PACNEWS: Wed 08 Apr 2026
Emotion-charged Olakau’atu finds form as rep return beckons
SYDNEY, 08 APRIL 2026 (NRL)—Inspired by a club legend and determined to draw a line in the sand, Haumole Olakau’atu returned to his destructive best against the Dolphins with 272 run metres and eight tackle breaks.
Following a chaotic week which saw assistant coach Kieran Foran take over from the sacked Anthony Seibold, Manly travelled to Queensland and silenced the Kayo Stadium home crowd with a 52-18 win.
“It was good, we as a collective knew we had to come out and get a win, especially get a win for Foz, (in his) first game being head coach, so, a special night for him and the club as a whole,” Olakau’atu said.
“Everyone knows what happened … and knows it’s a hard pill to take and thankfully the boys got together and we just connected throughout the week.
“We knew we had to come out and try and play for each other and play for the fans back home and in the community, so I’m glad we did that and just glad to get the two points.
“Obviously there was a bit of emotion as well for Foz and for us as players being able to have history with Foz as well … we played together for the back end of his career, so there’s a lot more meaning and purpose to this game and just glad we won for him.
“I’m just glad I went out there and was myself and didn’t have any structural plan, just go out there and run my hardest and tackle hard.
“Foz has given me that free will to do that and I feel like I was in my flow state so I’m glad to have played a good game, but it’s only the start.”
The Tonga second-rower was also hoping to maintain that form into this year’s World Cup, after injury plagued his 2025 season. A pre-season trip to the islands also gave the NSW Origin aspirant a fresh perspective which he has brought into this season.
“I’ve had my best pre-season… I’ve had to overcome a few minor setbacks [multiple shoulder dislocations], but I’m glad I’m in this position now and I’m playing really good footy now,” he said.
“When I got there (to Tonga), it was a very humbling experience, it was good to kind of just put your feet up and just enjoy the moment and family and friends.
“Sydney’s very fast, everything’s quick, so, it was good to go back home to the motherland and just cruise a bit in a way.
“A bit of connection with family and the culture and the heritage, so it was good.
“When I scored that try, I threw up a ‘T’ sign, so, it’s definitely something I’m very proud of, very proud to be Tongan and (playing in the Rugby League World Cup is) definitely something I’m thinking about as well towards the back end of the season.
“Really excited for when that comes, but right now I’m all about playing for Manly.”
The Sea Eagles will travel to Wollongong on Friday to take on a Dragons side desperate to turn around a 0-5 start to their season….PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY: FIJI SUN PACNEWS: Wed 08 Apr 2026
Opinon: Review is the way forward for the Drua
SUVA, 08 APRIL 2026 (FIJI SUN)—The Fijian Drua is heading towards another unsuccessful year in Super Rugby Pacific. Let’s not even entertain the thought, of them making the play-offs. This year’s campaign has been a total failure despite the signing of a few big names.
We feel for the loyal fans who despite the high cost of living have used every cent they saved to pay for their tickets to the games or the Drua merchandise.
The fans, as usual have fulfilled their end of the bargain throughout these years by standing behind the team but unfortunately the Drua coaches and players have not kept theirs.
The Drua has not won their away games since 2003.
Now, the Drua’s declared fortress at Churchill Park in Lautoka is just merely words after bottom placed Moana Pasifika thumped them 40-26 and followed by the Queensland Reds 21-6.
The massive 15-40 walloping to a second string Blues side in Auckland followed by last Friday’s 69-26 in Christchurch calls for an immediate independent review as soon as the Super Rugby season ends.
The review should be on the following:
COACHES
The performance of head coach Glen Jackson should come under scrutiny, especially with his winning rate of 28.6% for the 2025 season and he is currently around that mark as of now. That is really low. Even New Zealand Rugby (NZR) recently had to sack the All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson despite having a 70% winning strike rate in 2025. We’ve got to take our cue from there.
Also the review should be on whether we’ve the right person as the Strength and Conditioning coach. We just have to look at the physique of our players, who time and again have been bullied by the oppositions, simply because they don’t have the power to make their one-on-one tackles effective, burst through tackles or crash over to score tries.
Finally, the need to have a specialist defence coach. We’ve been harping about this even before the Super Rugby campaign starts. The last Drua defence coach was Brad Harris from 2022-2024, where they reached the 2023 and 2024 play-offs.
At the moment, the task is being handled by two renowned forwards coaches, who are doing all their best to make things work but sadly it is not what it is.
SELECTION
Before the Drua made their Super Rugby debut in 2022, the license (to participate) came in late and the Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) were unable to sign up overseas-based players. This was when they fell back on the local-based players who were playing in the Skipper Cup competition.
Due to the pandemic, the players were rushed to their training camp in New South Wales (NSW) in Australia to undergo their preparations. The players did not disappoint as they recorded two wins in their first season, a feat which cannot be equaled by former Super Rugby clubs like Jaguares, Sunwolves, Force, Rebels and Lions (South Africa).
This saw the emergence of local-based players like Kalaveti Ravouvou, Apisalome Vota, Vinaya Habosi, Onisi Ratave, Selestino Ravutaumada, Peni Matawalu, Simione Kuruvoli, Tevita Ikanivere, Chris Minimbi, Meli Derenalagi, Kitione Salawa, Tuidraki Samusamuvodre, Samu Tawake, Vilive Miramira, and the list goes on.
Then they were followed by the likes of Elia Canakaivata, Sikeli Rabitu, Philip Baselala, Motikiai Murray, Iosefo Masi, Isoa Tuwai, Kavaia Tagivetaua, Mesake Vocevoce, Iosefo Namoce and so on.
From the review, it should be made compulsory that players eligible for the Drua selection should play five to 10 Skipper Cup matches and for the Drua development players they must play the same number of matches in the Skipper Cup U20 players. Overseas-based players who want to play for the Drua, must first play in the Skipper Cup competition if they are to become eligible for selection.
This is the perfect platform since the Drua was first set-up to expose our local-based players to a professional environment.
LEADERSHIP
When the Drua started its Super Rugby campaign under head coach Mick Byrne in 2022, the first captain was veteran No.8 Nagusa. Then the 2023 and 2024 seasons, the captain was flanker Meli Derenalagi. Ikanivere captained a number of games when Derenalagi was rested due to injury.
When Jackson took over he had adopted the co-captains structure with Ikanivere- Frank Lomani for the 2025 season and Lomani and Temo Mayanavanua for this season.
The results have indicated that having co-captains does not work for the Drua.
In actual fact, it’s not in our DNA to have two leaders or chiefs leading the people at the same time. It’s our traditional culture to have one chief at the helm.
Having two chiefs, will only confuse and frustrate their subjects, which brings division instead of unity.
Lomani and Mayanavanua are two of our best players, so it’s best to put one as captain while the other as vice-captain.
The review should ensure the doing away of the co-captains concept, which is not aligned to our culture.
I-BOLE
The recent decision by SANZAAR not to allow the Drua to perform the iBole should raise a lot questions. We cannot compare the iBole to the Flying Fijians i-Cibi. This is because the i-Cibi is deeply rooted to our culture. There were traditional protocols observed before the i-Cibi was performed by the Flying Fijians.
On the other hand, the iBole is more like an entertainment war dance and is not deeply rooted to our culture.
It is more of a Christian war dance, with Biblical verses being its lyrics and lacks that cultural touch.
The review should focus on whether there is a real need for the Drua to perform the iBole or it’s best to do away with it.
AUST – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL PACNEWS: Wed 08 Apr 2026
‘Want your kids to be happy’: Cleary’s vision for future League Stars
SYDNEY, 08 APRIL 2026 (NRL)—Nathan Cleary can see a window into his future as he stands on the field watching kids play rugby league all around him.
One day, he hopes, his own kids will be running around the sports fields of Sydney playing rugby league.
Whether they reach the NRL or just play club footy with their mates isn’t important to Cleary. The Panthers star simply hopes his future children can share in the benefits of rugby league.
It’s a vision that has come into clearer view with the Kangaroos halfback becoming a champion for League Stars, an NRL program that forms the introduction to rugby league for thousands of youngsters around the country.
Having experienced the benefits of junior rugby league first hand, Cleary hopes not just his kids, but every child in Australia and beyond has the opportunity to play the sport.
“I’m proud to have this opportunity to give back to the community of rugby league,” Cleary told NRL.com. “The sport has given me so much so to be able to give back and promote participation at a younger level means a lot to me.
“Rugby league is the best sport ever. I’ve still got friends that have come through playing rugby league as a kid and it has that community feel. There’s a lot of great people involved in rugby league. It’s not only a connecting sport, it’s a lot of fun as well.”
League Stars is the NRL’s Junior Participation Program. It is a non-contact introductory rugby league programme for primary school-aged children. This program is delivered in primary schools through ball-in-hand or in-classroom activities, before and after school or school holidays.
League Stars provides children with basic rugby league skills in a fun and friendly environment and is suitable for all abilities. they also learn the importance of teamwork, make new friends and stay active through running, passing, catching and kicking.
The benefits for participants extend beyond the rugby league field as school students develop fundamental skills and build confidence in a supportive environment. In the classroom, students learn the importance of staying active and making healthy habits, through League Stars curriculum aligned resources.
Having travelled a more circuitous route to the NRL, Cleary would have loved the opportunity to participate in such a programme as a kid.
The NSW and Australian halfback spent the early years of his life in New Zealand while his dad was playing and coaching for the Warriors.
He dipped his toe in a range of sports before committing to rugby league as a 13-year-old once his family moved back to Sydney.
From there, Cleary steadily rose the ranks inside Penrith’s junior representative pathways and eventually developed into a four-time premiership winner. The halfback learnt plenty of life lessons along the way and remains friends with many of his junior rugby league teammates.
Despite being one of the biggest names in the game, Cleary has been careful to keep his personal life private.
That has started to shift in recent years as his relationship with Matildas star Mary Fowler progresses and the halfback has grown more comfortable sharing his vision for life after football.
Eventually he hopes the couple have children and he’s standing on the sidelines watching them play sport.
“It’s definitely a lifelong goal of ours to have kids,” Cleary said. “It will have to be at the right time so we’ll see what happens.
“Hopefully they’ll play rugby league one day. It’s the same for all parents, you just want your kids to be happy and enjoying themselves. My experience through rugby league has been super enjoyable and I’m sure it’s the same for most kids.”
Cleary has never been the biggest person on a rugby league field and embraced the non-contact formats of the game while growing up.
That is a major appeal of the League Stars program, while participation rates for League Tag and touch football have also surged in recent years.
Touch football has become a crucial stepping stone in the women’s game, with many of the game’s biggest stars playing touch before transitioning to tackle.
Cleary views these formats as a great way for children to receive a taste of the sport before their bodies start to develop and they feel comfortable playing tackle rugby league.
“Touch and tag are really important” Cleary said. “That was something that I played first when I moved over to Australia, I played tag. You get these different opportunities to still be involve in rugby league in different forms.
“I was such a fan of rugby league and loved watching on TV. Growing up if there was more tag I definitely would have played that at a younger age so programs like League Stars are such a great introduction to rugby league.”
Cleary has enjoyed a stunning start to the 2026 season, with the Panthers winning their first five games of the year.
The impressive performances come after Penrith’s 2025 campaign ended with a heartbreaking preliminary final defeat to Brisbane.
The loss ended a four-year premiership reign and lit the fire for the 2026 season as they look to reclaim their place at the top of the NRL.
“Watching the grand final was a different experience,” Cleary said. “It’s made everyone hunger but every team is hungry. The premiership is back on the table and it’s there for anyone to win.
“You’ve got to work hard, we’ve been making an emphasis on that and hopefully we’ll put ourselves in a position to go for it.”
What is League Stars?
League Stars is the NRL’s introductory participation program for children aged 5-12, designed to help every child build confidence, learn new skills, and enjoy their first experiences with Rugby League – no matter their experience level.
Through fun, game-based activities, kids will:
⭐ Learn the basic skills of Rugby League
⭐ Develop fundamental movement skills
⭐ Build confidence in a supportive environment
⭐ Stay active through practising running, catching, passing and kicking
⭐ Learn the importance of teamwork and making friends!
By the end of the program, kids will be buzzing with confidence, skills, and excitement – ready to stay active and continue their Rugby League journey……PACNEWS
USA – OLYMPICS: INSIDE THE GAMES PACNEWS: Wed 08 Apr 2026
‘Shocked’ fans question hidden charge for LA28 tickets
LOS ANGELES, 08 APRIL 2026 (INSIDE THE GAMES)—Olympic fans hoping to attend the Los Angeles 2028 Games have been left perplexed after discovering a raft of steep extra fees added at checkout, turning what seemed like straightforward ticket purchases into a costly surprise.
The first wave of presale tickets for local fans for the 2028 Summer Olympics went live on Thursday, but many Angelenos were stunned to find a hefty 24 percent service fee added at checkout. While entry-level tickets for the highly anticipated Games start at just us$28 (€26), prices can climb to as much as US$2,000 (€1,840) depending on the event or package selected. Premium packages for sought-after track and field finals are even steeper, ranging from US$2,350 (€2,160) to US$8,250 (€7,590) for top-tier seats.
Lori Rovner, from Manhattan Beach, told LAist she was eventually able to secure tickets after repeatedly encountering ‘access denied’ messages during the process. Her final bill for 16 tickets came to $2,604.63 (€2,395), with the tickets themselves priced at $2,100 (€1,932) and an additional $504.63 (€463) added in service fees.
“It’s insane,” Rovner said. “I don’t understand what the service is.”
Fans have to pay a hefty service fee as well as tax.
Frustration has also spilled onto social media. One user on Reddit’s Olympics thread shared a screenshot of their basket after buying ten tickets across five events, including swimming, basketball and soccer, with the total exceeding US$11,000 (€10,120).
What caught the most attention, however, was the service fee alone, which came to US$1,038.22 (€955). Many users criticised the additional charges, branding them a ‘money grab’. “Almost 25 percent is outrageous. It’s all outside of my realm but I’m still shaking my head,” one person wrote. Another added, “It also seems to be a percentage of the ticket price. Instead of just a flat service fee. Total money grab.”
“I hate this country so much sometimes,” a fourth added. One person shared what they said they paid to attend the 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris, including fees, comparing it with Los Angeles and claiming LA28 costs were four times higher.
“Comparing pricing of the LA tickets vs what I paid for Paris is shocking. Approx. 400 percent increase / 4x jump in cost. Additionally, the service fee for LA is 25 percent vs Paris 1.5 percent. I assumed LA would be more expensive…. but 400 percent more?”
They then outlined the difference: LA Athletics (Group B): US$2,050 (€1,886) ticket (including US$510 (€469) service fee), Paris Athletics (Group B): US$550 (€506) ticket +US $16 (€15) service fee.
Still, some pointed out that the steep example reflected premium purchases, noting it was possible to attend for far less. “For those who want to throw up at the prices, I got 18 tickets for 9 events and paid a little over US$550. I went with all US$28 tickets,” the person wrote.” I got women’s soccer, gymnastics, beach and regular volleyball, track and field, baseball and a few others. “This guy went all out. I would never spend that amount.”
Others noted that ticketing platforms such as Ticketmaster have historically charged service fees of around 15-20 percent of the ticket price, placing the Olympic surcharge slightly above typical industry levels. An LA28 spokesperson confirmed to The Post that ‘the service fee is based on the percentage of the ticket price you pay”.
“LA28’s ticket program is rooted in heavy analytics and extensive market demand research around entertainment and live sports in the U.S,” a statement read. Tickets are comparable to – or well under in many cases – professional sporting and major entertainment events in the U.S.”
“Pricing is based on a variety of factors and heavily informed by what fans have told us, as well as venue capacity, type of session, seat location and historical demand.”
“That said, LA28 tickets go up to the thousands in select cases for the most premium seats at a handful of the most anticipated events. The most expensive tickets represent a small portion of the overall inventory, and there are also accessibly priced options at these same sessions we know will draw headlines.”….PACNEWS
