The FIJI Water Flying Fijians believe the Nations Championship offers a valuable opportunity to strengthen their standing among the world’s top rugby nations, according to assistant coach Aaron Mauger.

Speaking at a Fiji Rugby Union Black & Tie fundraising event held at St George’s Place in Liverpool, Mauger highlighted Fiji’s progress over recent years and praised the competition as a pathway for further growth.

The event, which brought together members of the Fijian community, dignitaries and representatives from England Rugby, was organised to support the Fiji Rakavi Foundation, an initiative focused on providing welfare support for players beyond their rugby careers.

Mauger reflected on Fiji’s rise in the international rankings, noting the team’s movement from 12th position several years ago to its current place among the world’s top 10 teams.

“Fiji was positioned in 12th position and now we are placed in amongst the top 10 in the world,” Mauger said. “This competition provides us with better opportunities to grow our game, and I look forward to the match this weekend.”

Currently ranked ninth by World Rugby, the Flying Fijians see the Nations Championship as a chance to test themselves against the strongest teams while continuing to exceed expectations on the global stage.

Fellow coach Seremaia Bai also spoke about the importance of Fiji’s United Kingdom tour, describing it as a significant opportunity for the team to make the most of their time abroad.

“This is the first time for Fiji to travel during this period to the United Kingdom, and we will make the most of the opportunity,” Bai said.

The Flying Fijians will continue their Nations Championship campaign this weekend when they take on England at Liverpool’s Hill Dickinson Stadium.