Organisers optimistic of RWC impact in the sport

(Thank you Karalaini Nakei for the upbringing of our children).

“Thank you Jesus, vinaka Jisu na loloma (Thank you Jesus for the love).

“All have a blessed weekend and yep, God is amazing, awesome great and good all day, everyday.”

Fiji team v England:

Forwards: Iris Verebalavu, Vika Matarugu, Siteri Rasolea, Asinate Serevi, Sereima Leweniqila (Cpt), Sulita Waisega, Ema Adivitaloga, Karalaini Naisewa. Backline: Lavena Cavuru, Merewalesi Rokouono, Vitalina Naikore, Sesenieli Donu, Rajieli Laqeretabua, Alowesi Nakoci, Roela Radiniyavuni.

Reserves: Bitila Tawake, Bulou Vasuturaga, Mereoni Vonosere, Merevesi Ofakimalino, Raijieli Daveua, Akosita Ravato, Ana Maria Roqica, Melaia Matanatabu.

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THE organisers of the Rugby World Cup in New Zealand are confident the tournament will leave a lasting legacy for the sport and the women’s game.

After years of preparation, the event kicks off with a tripleheader at Eden Park on Saturday, concluding with the Black Ferns much-anticipated opener against trans-Tasman rivals Australia.

The 2022 edition of the tournament was making history as the first edition to be held in the Southern hemisphere.

But officials were optimistic it would eventually be seen as historic for other reasons, too.

World Rugby wanted the event to vehicle to kick-start their push to grow the women’s game in all areas.

Chief executive Alan Gilpin said there was a clear “if you can see it, you can be it” element to the tournament.

“This Rugby World Cup, and the manner in which it will be played, will provide an unprecedented visibility at a time when women’s sport is growing exponentially around the world.

“This tournament will really be the fuse for what will be a golden decade of opportunity, of certainty and of growth for women’s test rugby.”

Part of the reason for that belief was the momentum that had been generated in other sports.

The tournament came in the wake of several significant moments, most notably the huge popularity of the England women’s football team on the back of their win at the European Championships.

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