Macuata prepares for Skipper Cup

Macuata intends to remain in the Skipper Cup competition in years to come says union president Maikali Dimuri. In an interview with SUNSports yesterday Dimuri said they were optimistic about causing upsets in the coming season in order to retain their position.

Dimuri stressed the importance of their playing high intensity rugby when they faced top provincial sides.

“If we lose one game, we need to pick up and win the next one otherwise the drop would be inevitable,” Dimuri said.

Dimuri is passionate and excited about the possibility of hosting seven to eight Skipper Cup games at Subrail Park, Labasa in 2023.

The Skipper Cup draws are yet to be released by the Rugby House.

“Tentatively competition is scheduled to kick off in June, however, the final dates would be confirmed during the Fiji Rugby Union Special Meeting next year on January 14,” he said. Macuata Annual General Meeting (AGM) is scheduled January 21 where a decision needs to be reached on members to continue in their roles for another season.

Next year is Dimuri’s fifth and final year as head of management – under his leadership Macuata is now in the Skipper Cup competition. He hopes to continue in the position.

Macuata had lost 24-17 to Yasawa in the final

this year.

They defeated Ba 19 – 14 on route to securing their spot in the top-tier provincial rugby competition.

Meanwhile the 60-member squad have assembled for the pre-season training sessions. The squad will be trimmed to 30 before the opening round of the Skipper Cup.

“Training began in October, players went for a break and are expected back soon,” he said. Dimuri said they hope to secure a sponsor soon to assist them in their preparations.

“We have approached some business people to support the team; we are not giving up on this,” he reiterated.

According to Dimuri some individuals and businesses have assured the union that they could support them.

The Macuata Players Welfare Association continues to help the team with their basic needs.