Sensational Wests Tigers five-eighth Losana Lutu is among the eight NRLW (National Rugby League Women) players to play for the Fiji Bulikula in the Pacific Bowl Championship.

This was revealed to SUNsports in the weekend by Bulikula head coach Joe Rabele.

“We went to Australia to scout players and we got eight players who we’ve selected,” Rabele said.

“Playing in Australia for the Wests Tigers is wonder halfback Losana Lutu who is included as well.”

The Suva-born Lutu is a Campbelltown Junior who has made rapid progress through Wests Tigers pathways in recent years.

A gifted five-eighth with a strong running game, Lutu enjoyed a breakout season in 2022, helping NSW (New South Wales) to victory in the Under-19s State of Origin before winning a maiden title with Wests Tigers in the Harvey Norman Women’s Premiership. She is signed to the club through until the end of the 2026 season.

Rabele said they would choose the best combination of players as the clash against Cook Islands Moana on October 26 in Suva is also the qualifier for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup Women.

“We’ve been watching the women’s games in the local competition,” Rabele who coached the Bati to reach the semi-final of the 2008 RLWC said.

“At the moment, I have a few girls that will be included in the squad of 35 players but we will have to submit to NRL (National Rugby League) for their approval on the players’ eligibility.”

Rabele highlighted that there is room for improvement especially the level of the local competition.

“The qualifier is a very important game for us.”

Rabele knows the task at hand is to reach the 2026 Women’s Rugby League World Cup but to get there he has to play his cards right for the qualifiers.

“We have a good side but we are just waiting for the clearance from NRL. I’ve included a number of secondary school girls who are playing for Lami Steelers to be part of this qualifier,” he said.

He said that 50 per cent of the 35-member squad would consist of local-based players.

Rabele said the only drawback last year was when the Fiji Bulikula was not part of the World Cup.

“This year is good because it gives us time to identify our players. This team that we will name is good because it will be a mixture of players,” he added.

Feedback: josua.buredua@fijisun.com.fj