In this bulletin:
1. FOOTBALL — New Zealand and Fiji win big on opening day
2. FOOTBALL — Defending champions advance after second matchday in Group B
3. FOOTBALL — Late penalty sinks brave Junior Football Ferns in FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup opener
4. RUGBY LEAGUE — ‘We’re going there to win’: Kikau, Koroisau to lead Bati
5. RUGBY LEAGUE — ‘Irrelevant’: Marshall unfazed by Luai’s PNG trip
6. RUGBY LEAGUE — Cotter faces wipeout for Sharks final after charge
7. RUGBY — Fijiana XV hold off Japan to secure 15-12 victory
8. RUGBY — Samoa demand ‘intentional and accurate’ approach at WXV
9. RUGBY — Savea Ruled Out, Tupaea in Doubt as Springboks Take a 2-1 Series Lead
10. NETBALL — Fiji Pearls ready for Tonga challenge
11. NETBALL — World Cup Qualifiers just around the corner
12. BADMINTON — Fiji set to make badminton debut at Zespri AIMS Games
13. BOXING — Discrimination on “weaker countries” during Commonwealth Games
14. RUGBY — Cabinet Approves Samoa Rugby Football Union as Official Rugby Governing Body
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 07 Sep 2026
New Zealand and Fiji win big on opening day
APIA, 07 SEPTEMBER 2026 (OFC) — A hat-trick from Jess Saunders has kickstarted New Zealand’s OFC U-16 Women’s Championship title defence in a 5-0 victory over tournament hosts Solomon Islands at the National Stadium in Honiara.
Seeking to maintain their perfect record of having won all seven previous editions of the championship at this year’s tournament, the Young Football Ferns scored four of their five goals in the first half, Saunders adding the fifth and completing her hat-trick late in the game.
The two nations were meeting at the group stage for the third consecutive edition, with New Zealand having won by an identical 5-0 in Apia in 2025.
Saunders was in the thick of the action early, setting up Jessica Ellis for the opener in the fifth minute, before doubling the Ferns advantage with a magnificent direct long range free kick two minutes later.
She added to her early goal of the tournament contender in first half stoppage-time, breaking in-behind and beating Solomon Islands goalkeeper Rose Beui from a one-on-one position for a double. Madeleine Dwyer was the other to get on the scoresheet, sneaking an effort through Beui’s gloves from long range.
Hosting the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship for the first time, the Solomon Islands delivered a much improved defensive display after the break though, keeping New Zealand scoreless for over 45 minutes.
Just as it appeared as if New Zealand would be held scoreless for just the fourth time in a half of football at the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship though, Saunders was on hand to tap home her hat-trick from a pass from player of the match Kodi Wilson.
New Zealand: 5 (Jessica ELLIS 5’, Jess SAUNDERS 12’, 45+3’, 90+3′, Madeleine DWYER 18’)
Solomon Islands: 0
HT: 4-0
Earlier in the day, young sensation Adi Reva scored five goals as Fiji overpowered the Cook Islands 11-0 in the opening match of the tournament.
Already capped at senior international level by the Kulas, Reva scored two in the first half and then added three more in the second, propelling Fiji to their largest ever win at the OFC U-16 Women’s Championship.
Torika Boseiwaqa had the honor of scoring the first goal of the tournament in just the fifth minute, converting from the penalty spot.
That began a dominant afternoon for Nicola Demaine’s side, Boiseiwaqa scoring a second in the 26th minute, and Esther Vunivi also getting on the scoresheet in the first half. Reva scored the first of her five just after the half-hour mark, poking the ball past opposing goalkeeper Leah Schuster.
She scored her second moments before half-time, and completed her hat-trick in the 50th minute with a header from a corner delivery. Reva then added two more in the final quarter to reach an impressive tally of five, the most ever by a Fijian player in a single OFC U-16 Women’s Championship match.
Half-time substitute Temalesi Masi also made her mark, scoring two goals off the bench, the first of which came just two minutes after entering the pitch. Fellow replacement Elisha Narayan completed the scoring with the last kick of the game.
Returning to the Championship after winning the qualifying tournament in Port Moresby earlier this year, it was a tough baptism for the Cook Islands. They’ll face the Solomon Islands next on Group A’s second matchday at the National Stadium on Wednesday, after the early pacesetters New Zealand and Fiji do battle.
Fiji: 11 (Torika BOSEIWAQA 5’, 26’, Esther VUNIVI 20’, Adi REVA 33’, 45’, 50’, 77’, 85’, Temalesi MASI 47’, 87’, Elisha NARAYAN 90+7’)
Cook Islands: 0
HT: 5-0…. PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 07 Sep 2026
Defending champions advance after second matchday in Group B
APIA, 07 SEPTEMBER 2026 (OFC) — New Zealand have booked their place in the semi-finals of OFC U-19 Men’s Championship 2026 with a 2-0 win over Fiji at the Samoa Football HQ in Apia.
Both goals came in the second half for the Junior All Whites, who relied on the impact of their bench to breakthrough some spirited Fijian resistance, sealing progression from Group B with a match to spare.
The defending champions had defeated Fiji in the semi-finals on their way to the title in 2024, but found themselves frustrated for much of the opening 45 minutes here, failing to pierce the back of the net despite dominating possession and territory.
It took until the 54th minute to finally break the deadlock, half-time substitute Bailey Ferguson pouncing on a rebound inside the penalty box, after Harley Hill had his initial effort blocked following a corner delivery off the left.
Fellow substitute Oliver Grosso wrapped up the three points with the decisive second goal later in the 79th minute, tapping the ball in from close range following an impressive run down the right from player of the match Aaron Cartwright.
Fresh off a 7-2 win over Vanuatu in their first group stage match, the Junior Bula Boys created a few moments of their own across the course of the contest too, captain Delon Shankar firing a direct free kick inches over the bar in the first half, and Abdullah Khairati narrowly missing the bottom-left corner in the second.
Ultimately New Zealand’s depth shone through though, joining the Solomon Islands in the last four, as two teams to have already advanced with a matchday in either group still to play.
New Zealand: 2 (Bailey FERGUSON 54’, Oliver GROSSO 79’)
Fiji: 0
HT: 0-0
Earlier in the day, Tahiti scored a late equaliser to grab a vital point against Vanuatu, keeping both nation’s hopes of advancing beyond the group stage alive.
Tahiti were much the brighter side for large spells of the opening period, with Anuhea Arapari threatening early on, as Vanuatu struggled to find a foothold in the game.
Oguen Teanihi had the first real effort on goal of the match. The N0.10’s effort from distance was well hit, forcing Vanuatu goalkeeper Jesse Thomas in to a fine, low save. Herehei Teaha fired the subsequent rebound well over.
The turning point arrived shortly before half-time. Tahiti’s Kahi Morgant picked up his first yellow card in the 41st minute and when he committed a lazy trip just five minutes later, referee Ben Aukwai had little choice other than to brandish a second yellow and dismiss the midfielder.
Philemon John’s side looked to take advantage quickly after the break and just eleven minutes after the restart they had their reward.
Having won possession deep in Tahiti’s half, the ball was fed to Bule Hariri, who cut in from the right-hand side and flashed an effort towards the far post. The ball took a slight nick off of Tauhiki Bohl, leaving ‘keeper Tahutini with no chance as the net bulged behind him.
Vanuatu briefly thought they had doubled their lead just before the drinks break, but Rohan Masauvakalo was denied by the offside flag, having slide the ball under Tahutini.
Despite being a man down, Tahiti ended the 90 minutes the stronger team, with an leveller looking far likelier than Vanuatu doubling their advantage.
And so it was, with the clock ticking towards stoppage time that they finally found their breakthrough. Substitute Elias Jamet saw his initial effort saved by Thomas, before hooking the loose ball across the face of goal for the waiting Nathan Scavazza to tap in from a few yards out.
The draw keeps both teams in with a chance of a semi-final place, though they would need to win their final group fixture to have any chance to keeping their campaign alive. Tahiti will face Fiji, whilst Vanuatu will play New Zealand on the final matchday in Group B on Tuesday.
Vanuatu: 1 (Bule HARIRI 56′)
Tahiti: 1 (Nathan SCAVAZZA 89′)
HT: 0-0…. PACNEWS
PAC – FOOTBALL: OFC PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 07 Sep 2026
Late penalty sinks brave Junior Football Ferns in FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup opener
APIA, 07 SEPTEMBER 2026 (OFC) — New Zealand have come agonisingly close to securing a hard-earned point in their FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup opener, only for Japan to snatch a 2-1 victory with a late penalty in Lodz, Poland.
The Junior Football Ferns showed resilience to fight their way back into the Group D contest, with substitute Lily Brazendale levelling in the 59th minute after meeting Pia Vlok’s driven ball across goal and finishing confidently from close range.
But with New Zealand under sustained pressure in the closing stages, goalkeeper Brooke Neary who had been outstanding throughout was adjudged to have brought down a Japanese attacker in the 85th minute. After a lengthy review, Japan were awarded a penalty, and Miyu Matsunaga kept her composure to convert from the spot and decide the match.
Japan had enjoyed the better of a goalless first half, forcing Neary into a string of important saves, before taking the lead five minutes after the restart when Matsunaga headed home.
The statistics underlined Japan’s attacking threat, with 29 shots, 10 on target, while New Zealand were limited to three attempts.
Despite the defeat, New Zealand coach Callum Holmes found positives in a committed defensive display against one of the tournament favourites.
“I think it’s a really cruel way to lose the game at the end. Now we’ve just got to go again,” Holmes said.
“We did a lot of defending. Japan are very good with the ball.”
“We need to rest and recover, and get ready for Italy, which is going to be a very tough game.”
The performance also represented a notable step forward from the last U-20 Women’s World Cup meeting between the two nations, when Japan won 7-0 in 2024.
New Zealand will look to respond in their second Group D match against The Italians on Thursday morning, who upset the USA 2-1 in their opening match.
Oceania’s second representative, New Caledonia, opens its campaign against China overnight in Sosnowiec.
JAPAN 2 (Miyu MATSUNAGA 50’ 90+2’)
NEW ZEALAND 1 (Lily BRAZENDALE 58’)…. PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY LEAGUE: NRL PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 07 Sep 2026
‘We’re going there to win’: Kikau, Koroisau to lead Bati
CANBERRA, 07 SEPTEMBER 2026 (NRL) — An international tug-of-war has erupted over the Fainu brothers, Latu, Samuela and Sione, after Bati coach Mick Potter named the siblings in a 40-man World Cup squad subject to eligibility clearances.
The Fainu brothers were among eight Wests Tigers players chosen in the extended Fiji squad, alongside co-captain Api Koroisau, fullback Jahream Bula, winger Sunia Turuva, centre Solomone Saukuru and hooker Josese Lanyon.
Latu Fainu was a member of the Tonga squad that toured England in 2023 and made his international debut in the third Test. Samuela and Sione are also being considered for World Cup selection with Tonga.
However, the trio are continuing a mission to prove their eligibility to represent Fiji in honour of their late grandmother and Potter has named them in his extended squad announced at a press conference in Suva.
Potter said the brothers had been included in the 40-man squad to ensure they qualified for selection if eligible.
“We have to put them in otherwise they won’t qualify for the 23-member squad,” Potter said.
“That’s still pending at the moment. We’re hopeful of a positive outcome.”
Potter confirmed that Koroisau and Bulldogs secondrower Viliame Kikau would lead the Bati’s World Cup campaign, which begins at Newcastle’s McDonald Jones Stadium on October 18 against Cook Islands.
Fiji, who reached the semi-finals of the 2017 World Cup under Potter after upsetting New Zealand, are drawn in Pool A and will also face the Kangaroos at Suncorp Stadium on October 25 and the Kiwis at Cbus Super Stadium on October 31.
The extended Bati squad includes 22 players from NRL clubs, headed by Dolphins utility Kurt Donoghoe, Manly pair Caleb Navale and Brandon Wakeham, Eels forward Kitione Kautoga and Knights prop Jacob Saifiti.
Another four former NRL stars – Maika Sivo, Semi Valemei, Waqa Blake and Taane Milne – have been selected from Super League, along with Castleford’s Fiji-born speedster Jason Qareqare.
“What we have got is a contingent of NRL players and Viliame Kikau and Api Koroisau will lead us, along with Jahream Bula,” Potter said.
“We have got mostly NRL players along with some NSW Cup and Queensland Cup and Super League players. Where I think we have a shortage of players – at fullback, halfback and frontrow – we have got three local players to cover those positions.
“I am really happy with the squad and subject to injury and subject to suspensions this will be the main contingent.”
Fiji National Rugby League will submit the 40-man squad for eligibility checks before they can finalise their 23-man squad for Rugby League World Cup 2026.
The Fainu brothers were last month told that they still need to prove their eligibility to play for Fiji.
“All three are eligible for Tonga and New Zealand but believe they have Fijian heritage that they wish to honour,” International Rugby League Chair Troy Grant said.
“Unfortunately they’ve been unable to establish with accredited records from Fiji.
“IRL have no issues with their application or desire to represent Fiji as it’s evident they have a genuine desire to play for Fiji and during heritage round recently flew both the Tongan and Fijian fags.
“The IRL has rigid eligibility criteria and have given them more time to provide credible documents to support their application.”
Potter is also waiting to learn of the availability of Saifiti after he was sent off in Newcastle’s loss to the Warriors last weekend and suspended for four matches.
“I can’t wait for the World Cup to happen. We have got Cook Islands, Australia and New Zealand, so it’s going to be tough,” Potter said.
“We’re not going there to lose, we are going there to win. We’ve got to win at least two of our pool games.
“Subject to injuries, subject to suspensions, this will be the main contingent and we will announce the 23-man squad in early October.”…. PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY LEAGUE: AAP PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 07 Sep 2026
‘Irrelevant’: Marshall unfazed by Luai’s PNG trip
CANBERRA, 07 SEPTEMBER 2026 (AAP) — Benji Marshall insists Jarome Luai is entitled to spend his downtime as he pleases, dismissing “irrelevant” criticism of the Wests Tigers star’s recent trip to PNG.
When Luai asked to change his flight out of Townsville following last week’s loss to North Queensland, Marshall was unaware his star player would be travelling to his future home country to attend a golf tournament.
The trip came only days after Pepsi unveiled Luai as a brand ambassador ahead of his arrival at the Chiefs for their first NRL season in 2028.
Luai’s trip to Port Moresby, and the first of what is likely to be many promotional opportunities with PNG brands, come while he remains on a seven-figure salary with the Tigers.
The five-eighth will also join Parramatta on a one-year deal before his first pre-season with the Chiefs, which begins in more than a year.
Marshall described media concerns over the optics of Luai’s enthusiastic PNG links as “irrelevant to me”.
“He paid to change his flights (from Townsville) and not come back with us, which happens quite often with players,” Marshall said.
“From my opinion, it’s his time off.
“What he chooses to do in his time off, that’s up to him. In one week’s time, he’s not going to be here anymore and we’re not going to have to worry about any of those things.”
Marshall said, in time, Luai’s move to the Chiefs could help transform him from villain to hero in the public’s eye.
“He always gets painted as the villain for some reason,” Marshall said.
“But he’s about to walk into a country in about 12 months’ time where he’s about to be the hero, so it’s going to change for him.”
Four-time premiership winner Luai arrived at the Tigers last year with hopes of finally reinvigorating the long-struggling joint venture.
Instead, Luai’s decision to sign with the Chiefs coincided with a sharp downturn in form that consigned the Tigers to a 15th consecutive year out of finals.
Marshall previously admitted he had let the saga become a distraction for the 15th-placed Tigers, who had been in the top four when Luai signed with the Chiefs.
“There’s obviously a lot of things probably both sides wish went a little bit better, but we are where we are and we’ve got to move forward,” Marshall said.
Marshall still believed Luai’s signing was a success for the Tigers, who face top-two side Penrith in their last game of the season.
“There’s no regrets from our side about bringing him here whatsoever because he did the job we needed him to,” he said.
“I’m sure a lot of people probably have their opinions about what he hasn’t done here, but all I’ve seen are the things he has done here and the impact he has had on the club.
“I’m sure he would admit himself that he would have liked to have contributed more on field performance-wise but all in all, he’ll leave here having had an impact on our club.”…. PACNEWS
PAC – RUGBY LEAGUE: AAP PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 07 Sep 2026
Cotter faces wipeout for Sharks final after charge
CANBERRA, 07 SEPTEMBER 2026 (AAP) — North Queensland are set to lose co-captain Reuben Cotter to suspension going into the NRL finals after the representative forward was slapped with a grade two careless high tackle charge.
The Cowboys will play Cronulla away in an elimination final on the back of a 50-30 thrashing by Canberra on Saturday night that got off to a horror start when Cotter was sin-binned for a high shot on retiring legend Josh Papalii after just 15 seconds.
Referee Nick Pelgrave said it was reckless and forceful to the head, but Papalii passed his HIA and returned to go out a winner.
Cotter was not charged with a reckless high tackle but the grade two careless high tackle charge comes with a minimum of one week’s suspension and two if he challenges and fails at the judiciary.
The Cowboys face sudden death so have nothing to lose by challenging and trying for a downgrade.
The 27-year-old Cotter had already been charged three times, all grade one, by the Match Review Committee (MRC) this year, but had no extra loading on his record.
Two of those charges have fallen off his record given they were more than 10 games ago and he successfully challenged a high shot charge on Gold Coast’s Jayden Campbell in round 23.
A grade one charge would see him available for the Sharks clash.
Coach Todd Payten was optimistic about Cotter’s chances of playing in the Sharks showdown post-match.
“It was a big collision, definitely,” Payten said.
“Watching it again a couple of times, I thought it was head on head.
“I thought Papa stayed down just in disappointment of dropping the ball, and then in the HIA he was cleared and came back to play which was a good thing for him and a good way for him to finish off his career.”
Cotter was of the same view on the hit and also said it was “head on head”.
North Queensland were way off the pace against Canberra and conceding 50 points heading into finals was not what the coach wanted.
“Shocked, very disappointed,” Payten said of the display.
“But it is a new competition next week, and we have got to get past that quickly and dive into what we are doing on Monday.”
The Sharks have also limped into the post-season, but the Cowboys must find defensive resolve and fix their discipline if they are to go further than week one of the playoffs.
“We have got to look at ourselves,” Payten said.
“That is four games in a row that we have had someone in the bin through poor discipline or a stupid decision and that is all in our own control.
“The game is too hard to play with 12 men. We do that next week and the game is gone.
“It is about high completions and field position in the next four weeks and if you don’t get any of them right then you are not in the contest.”…. PACNEWS
FIJI – RUGBY: FIJIVILLAGE PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 07 Sep 2026
Fijiana XV hold off Japan to secure 15-12 victory
SUVA, 07 SEPTEMBER 2026 (FIJIVILLAGE) — The Vodafone Fijiana XV held off a determined Japan side to secure a hard-fought 15-12 victory in their international Test match Friday night.
Fiji made a strong start with fullback Ivamere Rokowati crossing for the opening try in the 8th minute to give the Fijiana a 5-0 lead.
Varanisese Qoro extended Fiji’s advantage with their second try in the 20th minute as the Fijiana went 10-0 ahead.
Japan responded in the 27th minute through Nami Asari, with Maiko Nishi adding the conversion to reduce Fiji’s lead to 10-7.
The Vodafone Fijiana XV maintained their three-point advantage heading into half-time.
Fiji struck again early in the second half when winger Aqela Raitubu crossed in the 50th minute to extend their lead to 15-7.
Japan refused to go away and hit back through Asuka Kuge in the 56th minute to close the gap to 15-12.
Despite Japan applying pressure in the latter stages of the match, the Fijiana defence held firm as neither side managed to add further points before the final whistle.
Fiji dominated the attacking territory during the match, making 17 entries into Japan’s 22 compared with six by the hosts.
The Fijiana also won 116 rucks compared with Japan’s 79 and spent 74 minutes in the lead.
The 15-12 victory gives the Vodafone Fijiana XV a winning start to their Japan Rugby Challenge Match campaign at JAPAN BASE in Fukuoka…. PACNEWS
SAMOA – RUGBY: RUGBY PASS PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 07 Sep 2026
Samoa demand ‘intentional and accurate’ approach at WXV
APIA, 07 SEPTEMBER 2026 (RUGBY PASS) — Fuimaono Bella Milo has named her first squad as head coach of Manusina Samoa ahead of the WXV Global Series Challenger.
Bella Milo enjoyed an 18-year playing career with Samoa and even represented her country in rugby sevens at the 2026 Olympic Games in Rio de Janeiro.
At last year’s Women’s Rugby World Cup, she was defence coach for Samoa. A role she performed while six months pregnant. In April it was confirmed that the 40-year-old had succeeded Ramsay Tomokino as the team’s head coach.
The squad contains a number of players that competed at Women’s Rugby World Cup 2025, including Lutia Col Aumua and Taytana Pati Ah Cheung. Harmony Vatau, who registered Samoa’s only points at the competition, is not selected.
Itema Filipaina, Janita Faoagali-Kareta, Koreti Leilua and Ariana Matue are all in line for their Test rugby debuts at Kai Tak Sports Ground over the next three weeks.
Fuimaono Bella Milo, Manusina Samoa head coach, said: “The squad we selected brings a fantastic mix of experience, combining players returning from the World Cup last year and others with valuable WXV experience.
“Having players come straight out of competitive club rugby environments across New Zealand, Australia and Samoa has significantly boosted our preparation, so we are looking forward to hitting the ground running next week.
“WXV gives us invaluable time together as a squad. With our ultimate goal focused on the World Cup qualifiers next year, we need to be intentional and accurate in our style of play. Every step we take now is about building momentum toward Oceania 2027.
“On a personal level, I am genuinely looking forward to this campaign. We have an outstanding coaching staff and a management team that deeply cares for this jersey. I am eager to see our growth and execution as we look to move the needle and, ultimately, inspire the next generation of Tamaitai Samoa to represent our country.”
Manusina Samoa 2026 WXV Global Series Challenger squad
Ana Afuie-Falefa, Lutia Col Aumua, Michelle Curry, Drenna Falaniko, Janell Fereti Faanana, Linda Fiafia, Avau Valentina Filimaua, Itema Filipaina*, Jorja Fruean, Leutu Iefata Suaesi, Janita Faoagali-Kareta*, Davina Lasini, Saelua Leaula, Hasting Leiataua, Koreti (Leki) Leilua*, Fa’asua Makisi, Ariana Matue*, Maletina Maevaga Brown, Octavia Nanai Iafeta, Malia Nikolao, Faith Nonutunu, Taytana Pati Ah Cheung, Melina Salale, Easter Savelio, Machiko Silila F Fepuleai, Olalini Tafoulua, Precious (Fai) Auimatagi, Tyra Boysen Auimatagi
Manusina Samoa WXV Global Series Challenger fixtures
Sunday 13 September | Manusina v Netherlands
Saturday 19 September | Manusina v Spain
Saturday 26 September | Hong Kong China v Manusina…. PACNEWS
SAMOA – RUGBY: SAMOA GLOBAL NEWS PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 07 Sep 2026
Savea Ruled Out, Tupaea in Doubt as Springboks Take a 2-1 Series Lead
APIA, 07 SEPTEMBER 2026 (SAMOA GLOBAL NEWS) — New Zealand captain Ardie Savea will miss next weekend’s fourth Test against South Africa after suffering a shoulder injury in the All Blacks’ 29-24 loss to the Springboks.
The 32-year-old was forced from the field nine minutes before halftime on Saturday in a major blow for the All Blacks, who fell 2-1 behind in the four-Test series following the bruising defeat at Soccer City.
Savea had scored two tries before his injury, but his absence allowed South Africa to gain dominance and eventually claim victory.
“He won’t travel now (to the United States). We’ll work out what it will look like in the next few hours,” coach Dave Rennie told the post-match press conference.
The fourth Test will be played in Baltimore next Saturday.
Centre Quinn Tupaea also suffered a knee injury and will be a doubt for the clash, Rennie confirmed.
The two sides scored two tries each in a tight first half before the All Blacks appeared to take control when Will Jordan chased his own kick ahead and crossed to give New Zealand a 17-12 lead.
However, Jesse Kriel barged over at the other end before South Africa took full advantage.
Malcolm Marx then crossed for another try, while Sacha Feinberg-Mngomezulu added a penalty to extend the Springboks’ lead.
A late try to Samisoni Taukei’aho narrowed the margin, but South Africa held on for the five-point victory.
Both teams are due to leave for the United States early Sunday on a shared charter flight.
The fourth Test gives the All Blacks an opportunity to level the series, which they led after winning the opening clash against the Springboks a fortnight ago before suffering successive defeats.
“They are world champions for a reason. Very good up front and they play a bit of footy tonight,” Rennie said…. PACNEWS
PAC – NETBALL: FIJI TIMES PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 07 Sep 2026
Fiji Pearls ready for Tonga challenge
SUVA, 07 SEPTEMBER 2026 (FIJI TIMES) — The release of the Oceania Netball World Cup Qualifiers draw has given Crest Fiji Pearls head coach Michelle Parsons greater clarity as the team enters the final stages of preparation for the tournament in Tonga.
Fiji will open its campaign against the Cook Islands on 15 September, with the draw now allowing Parsons and her coaching team to fine-tune their preparations and match-day plans.
Parsons said her initial reaction to the draw was one of relief, as the schedule provided certainty around the team’s planning.
“My first reaction to the release of the draw was more around the ability to now plan and prepare our schedule and timings,” Parsons said.
“It’s always good to know who we are playing and when, so you feel settled with what is happening.”
Parsons highlights that knowing our’ first opponent would also help shape their preparation, with the team now able to study the Cook Islands and identify areas that could influence their approach.
“Knowing your first opponent does help you prepare. You look at any opposition knowledge you have that may help with your own preparation,” she said.
Parsons also spoke highly of the Cook Islands’ rich netball history and the legacy of players who have represented the nation at the international level.
“The recent passing of Ana Noovao hit the netball communities across the world and we mourned the loss of such a beautiful wahine alongside our Cook Island whānau,” Parsons said.
While respecting the Cook Islands’ history, Parsons is also well aware of the quality Fiji will face when the two sides meet in Tonga.
She said the Cook Islands squad brings together a combination of experience and emerging talent, making them a side Fiji cannot afford to underestimate.
For the Crest Fiji Pearls, the 15 September clash will be the first step in what is expected to be a highly competitive Oceania qualifying campaign, with the ultimate prize being qualification for the 2027 Netball World Cup in Sydney.
With the draw now confirmed, the countdown has moved another step closer to match day and Parsons believes having clarity around the schedule will allow the Pearls to focus on what matters most: preparing to perform when they take the court in Tonga.
The Oceania qualifiers will be held in Tonga from 14–18 September, with Fiji opening its campaign against the Cook Islands on 15 September…. PACNEWS
FIJI – NETBALL: FBC SPORTS PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 07 Sep 2026
World Cup Qualifiers just around the corner
SUVA, 07 SEPTEMBER 2026 (FBC SPORTS) — Preparations are progressing well for the Fiji Pearls as they gear up for the Netball World Cup 2027 Regional Qualifier in Tonga next week.
Head coach Michelle Parsons says building strong combinations and developing relationships within the squad will be crucial, particularly with several new players joining the team.
The Pearls have been concentrating on getting the fundamentals right while also experimenting with different player combinations to determine which line-ups work best in various match situations.
Parsons says the intensity in camp has been high, with the players putting in the hard yards over the past few weeks as they prepare for the challenge ahead.
“The atmosphere right now in camp is great; the players have been working really hard, and building the bond between players is something we have been working on. They are all focused and composed ahead of the qualifiers, and they are looking forward to making the country proud.”
The Fiji Pearls will open their campaign against the Cook Islands.
The regional qualifiers will be held in Tonga from 14 to 19 September, with teams battling for a place at the Netball World Cup 2027…. PACNEWS
FIJI – BADMINTON: BADMINTON OCEANIA PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 07 Sep 2026
Fiji set to make badminton debut at Zespri AIMS Games
SUVA, 07 SEPTEMBER 2026 (BADMINTON OCEANIA) — The Zespri AIMS Games is just days away, and this year Australasia’s largest junior sporting event will welcome a new nation to its badminton draw, with Fiji sending two young athletes to compete in Tauranga for the first time. They will line up alongside players from the Cook Islands and hosts New Zealand in this year’s badminton competition.
The tournament runs from 5–11 September 2026, and among the new arrivals is 11-year-old Arohan Gogoi, for whom the trip will be his first time travelling to New Zealand.
“I like to run, hit the shuttle,” said Arohan. “I’m excited to represent my school and meet other people from my age group and learn from them.”
A family affair
Arohan’s badminton journey began close to home. His mother, Mercy, said the family started playing casually on their lawn a few years ago, and it quickly became a weekly ritual—evenings after work and long weekend sessions that the whole family looked forward to.
“That’s how it grew,” Mercy said. “Why not go a bit deeper and let our son know and learn more. It’s not about winning, it’s more about players and learning from them.”
That enthusiasm eventually led the family to seek out proper coaching. They found a coach in Nadi, and despite the hour-long drive from Lautoka, committed to weekly Saturday sessions: training in the morning, then spending the rest of the day at the courts as a family.
Building the game in Lautoka
Mercy’s involvement in the sport extends beyond the family court, she also sits on the committee of Lautoka Badminton, a newly formed club working to establish itself in Fiji’s Western Division. The club is still in its early stages and lacks the space needed for serious training, but Mercy said interest is growing fast, particularly among secondary school students turning up for social sessions.
“This is just the beginning,” she said. “I am so sure that with the love of this game… we will be able to have funds; we will be able to organise the space. Really good things are coming up in the future.”
With a background in mental health and a role as a lecturer, Mercy also spoke about the wider value of sport for young Fijians as an outlet for stress, a support for physical fitness, and a positive alternative for young people at a time when drugs and crime are increasingly common among the younger generation. She said badminton in particular appeals to her because, unlike many sports, it can be played year-round.
A pathway shaped by experience
Lautoka Badminton Club’s interim president is Sonali Kumar, whose own playing background gives her a valuable perspective on developing the next generation. Sonali previously represented Fiji’s national junior team at the Oceania Junior Championships and has been playing since she picked up the sport in high school at age 14.
“It’s just the love for the sport,” Sonali said. “Everywhere I go, I want to play, I want to get into the tournament. So, it’s the fact that I can share that emotion with the younger generation, which is a pretty overwhelming thing for me.”
She also pointed to badminton’s appeal as a low-contact, accessible sport for kids who want to enjoy competition without the physicality of some other codes, something she said keeps the club’s junior sessions fun as well as competitive.
With Arohan, alongside Suva’s Abigail Corrie, preparing to make history as Fiji’s first badminton representatives at the Zespri AIMS Games, the Lautoka club’s grassroots growth is already showing signs of success, as the momentum continues building for the sport in Fiji’s Western Division…. PACNEWS
VAN – BOXING: VANUATU DAILY POST PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 07 Sep 2026
Discrimination on “weaker countries” during Commonwealth Games
PORT VILA, 07 SEPTEMBER 2026 (VANUATU DAILY POST) — Commonwealth Games boxing officials were advised to stop bouts early against perceived “weaker” countries’, claimed a Vanuatu Boxing Coach in a report.
The claim was made regarding an early stoppage in a 55kg boxing match between Vanuatu’s Ricksen Nomleas and England’s Ellis Trowbridge.
Ricksen’s fight in the Glascow Games was stopped by the referee in the first round at 1:53sec, declaring England the winner and Vanuatu’s only boxer eliminated.
Ricken’s coach Cameron Todd of the Fiji National Boxing said in an email that the decision was unfair and that that officials were advised to stop bouts early against “weaker countries”.
“I hope you don’t mind me adding my opinion as I was in the corner with team Vanuatu for that bout,’’ he wrote.
“You have every right to be annoyed as it was a very unfair decision and we learnt that the tournament officials were advised to stop bouts early against perceived ‘weaker’ countries.’’
According to Coach Todd, Vanuatu was written off too early and the decision was based on criteria that discriminated against countries which the officials deemed as weak.
Todd said that even the English coach approached him after the match and apologised for they both believed it was a premature decision.
“This is very unfair as it affected quite a few Oceania bouts,’’ he said.
“You should also note that the head coach of England which is where the opponent for Ricksen came from, came over to me after the bout and apologised for the bad decision.”…. PACNEWS
SAMOA – RUGBY: SAMOA GLOBAL NEWS PACNEWS SPORT: Mon 07 Sep 2026
Cabinet Approves Samoa Rugby Football Union as Official Rugby Governing Body
APIA, 07 SEPTEMBER 2026 (SAMOA GLOBAL NEWS) — Cabinet has approved the Samoa Rugby Football Union (SRFU) as the official body responsible for governing and leading rugby in Samoa.
In a press release Saturday evening, the Government stated that the Ministry of Sports and Recreation is spearheading the restructuring and future development of rugby in Samoa.
This comes after the two unions, Lakapi Samoa and SRFU, hosted separate 7s tournaments on the same weekend.
Lakapi Samoa hosted the first leg of the Vodafone 7s, which was won by Tepatasi, while SRFU hosted the Moata’a Measina 7s in Apia, with Itu o Tane taking home the cup.
The divide has now left the country in a predicament over which banner Manu Samoa will play under as the Rugby World Cup looms in 2028.
It is unclear which individuals will head the endorsed Samoa Rugby Football Union or the list of its Board Members.
The stance from World Rugby has been to conduct an independent external review while an agreed Interim Board is appointed to govern in the meantime…. PACNEWS
