Lautoka, Fiji – The Kaiviti Silktails are currently navigating a critical player availability crisis, driven by a wave of injuries, suspensions, and off-field absences that have significantly tested the squad’s depth as the Jersey Flegg season reaches its climax.
As they approached last weekend’s Round 19 match against the Canberra Raiders, the Silktails were already missing ten regular squad members. That figure has since escalated to twelve following recent judiciary rulings that imposed four-week bans on both Seva Tovuto and Sisa Vuniwaqa for incidents during the Canberra clash.
Vuniwaqa, a promising young back-rower, played valiantly despite the Silktails suffering a 34–6 loss, scoring their only try before being cited for a dangerous throw and sent to the sin bin. The Match Review Committee subsequently imposed the same four-match suspension on both him and Tovuto for dangerous tackles.
Updated Player Unavailability List:
- Akuila Qoro – Transferred to Canterbury Bulldogs
- Gabriel Rawamila – Broken Arm
- Jerry Raimasima – Concussion Stand Down
- Eparama Kikau – Broken Collarbone
- Asalusi Naciqu – 4 Week Suspension
- Kali Bulai – Personal Leave
- Senivilati Vunibola – Personal Leave
- Marika Doughty – ACL Injury
- Jone Navunidreudreu – Knee Injury
- Seva Tovuto – 4 Week Suspension (Dangerous Tackle)
- Sisa Vuniwaqa – 4 Week Suspension (Dangerous Throw)
The Silktails’ coaching staff has acknowledged the immense pressure on squad depth due to these challenges, noting that with limited experienced reinforcements available, many young players have been thrust into pivotal roles earlier than anticipated.
“It’s one of the toughest stretches we’ve had,” a club spokesperson commented. “We’ve had to make major adjustments across the board, and while this gives our younger players an opportunity to step up, continuity and cohesion have taken a hit.”
Despite these obstacles, the Silktails remain devoted to finishing the season on a high note, hopeful for the return of some players in the final rounds. Simultaneously, internal reviews are being carried out to address the disciplinary issues compounding the club’s recent challenges.
In particularly somber news, 2024 Rising Star Award winner and first-choice hooker Seru Kalounivalu will be unavailable this week due to the passing of a close family member. The Silktails have extended their thoughts and prayers to Seru and his family during this difficult period.
However, there is a silver lining: 18-year-old winger/fullback Seremiah Ramasima will make his return to the Silktails lineup after a 21-day concussion stand down, successfully participating in a development match for NRL feeder club the Canterbury Bulldogs against South Sydney Rabbitohs. He will be joined by powerful prop Alipate Qoro, returning from a one-match suspension, as the Silktails seek to replicate their Round 4 win against the Newcastle Knights in Lautoka earlier this season.
Club Leadership Commentary:
Silktails Executive Director Stephen Driscoll expressed an optimistic outlook regarding the club’s long-term aspirations, emphasizing its crucial role in developing players, particularly as it relates to recent events with Akuila Qoro’s transfer.
“We always knew that part of this journey was about building depth and giving our young players opportunities to grow. While we’ve faced some tough setbacks with injuries and suspensions, we are incredibly proud of the players stepping in.”
“A great example is Akuila Qoro, who has now permanently transferred to the Canterbury Bulldogs. We’ve celebrated his departure as a reward for his consistent performances. Seeing players move into NRL systems is exactly what this program is about—developing, nurturing, and launching the careers of young Fijian talent.”
“It’s also opened the door for the next wave of players to show what they can do, and we’re excited about the depth coming through, highlighting that the Silktails are more than just a club; we are a pathway for emerging talent.”
Adding to the excitement, the club’s CEO mentioned plans to engage with Canterbury Bulldogs officials about potential opportunities for players aging out of the program next season. Co-Captain and halfback Meli Wara is expected to be at the top of the list for these opportunities, reinforcing the Silktails’ commitment to ensuring that their players have a clear path to success beyond their time with the club.
