The Solomon Islands Rugby Union (SIRUF) has revealed that it is organizing a rugby match to be part of the Fiji national day celebration in Honiara on the 11th of October.
This year, Fiji celebrates its 36th year of independence from Britain on the 10th of October 1972.According to SIRUF, the Solomon Islands Fijian community has requested them to select a 15 aside rugby team to play a match against the Fiji side consisting of Solomon Island Fijians.
Nick Hatigeva has confirmed the Honiara select team's participation. Representing the Solomon Islands side will be; Dave Kaitu'u, David Naki, Dubie Lucas, Fet Tepo, Frank Paikea, Fredson Soaki, Golden Kiloko, Kenny Tuapa, Leon Hatigeva, McFret Tesuatai, Mcqueen Tekatoha, Movete Tupou, Stenah Tengemoana, Stewart Baiabe, Warren Pugeva, Stewart Urumaikeni, Baptist Kelesi, Carlwyn Tengemoana, Edmond Angikianga, Harris Giusaga, Jeffrey Cole, Leslie Puia, Patrick Marie, Ramsay Mamata, Reagan Pitabelama, Roman Tongaka, Simon Teika, Vivian Kelesi, Vivian Wickham and William Mohu.
Meanwhile SIRUF had already given a 'yes' for the proposed Fiji day tournament to be held annually viewing it as a potential benefit to the development of rugby in Solomon Islands.
SIRUF has also said that its contribution was also fitting in view of the outstanding contributions which the Fijian community has given to Solomon Islands in the development of rugby games
According to SIRUF, the Fijians who had been working and living in Solomon Islands during and after the Second World War introduced rugby to Solomon Islands. SIRUF also wants to acknowledge the contribution made by a number of Solomon Islands Fijians who represented Solomon Islands in major rugby events internationally.
The 15 a side rugby match will be the second time such an event was organized for the Fiji Day Celebrations. The Fiji Celebrations 2007 rugby match was won by the Solomon Islands team.
SOLOMONTIMES.COM WITH NATIONAL EXPRESS