The Vodafone Cook Islands Rugby Union Tri Nations 15s Competition kicks off today with the highly anticipated clash between the Cook Islands Residents XV and Tabusoro Fiji Cook Islands team.

The two teams will clash at Raemaru Park in Arorangi at 4pm this afternoon.

According to the Cook Islands Rugby Union, both teams will be looking to launch their campaign in style and hoping for a win to strengthen their position in the round robin competition which also features defending champions Tokouso.

According to CIRU development manager Ben Koteka, last year there was a closely-fought competition with Tokouso (Samoa/Tonga) finishing in top place with a draw and win in their important clash with Tabusoro. Tabusoro was placed second after their win against Cook Islands Residents.  

“Based on their recent training sessions, Tabusoro have been leading the way with very good numbers in attendance,” Koteka said.

“After a long season (league and union) both the Tokouso and CI Residents teams have been slow to assemble the troops but both teams are confident that their players will appear and they will put up a strong challenge come Saturday.”

Contrasting styles of play will appear this weekend, according to Koteka.

“The CI Residents team basing their game around a strong forward pack to be led by Li Ponini and Robert Heather. While Tabusoro will play their normal free-spirited 15-man game sure to revolve around their dynamic backline led by powerful midfielder Tua Ravula and there fleetfooted winger Pita Senibiakula.”

Tabusoro team manager Kimi Narovu said: “The dedication and commitment demonstrated by the gentlemen during their preparation over the past weeks have been commendable.”

“We would also like to extend our gratitude to the individuals who have stepped up to join the new management team this year,” Narovu said.

“Their involvement is invaluable as we embark on this exciting journey together. With the hard work and enthusiasm shown, we are optimistic about a successful season ahead.”

The management is calling on all Fijians to come out in numbers and support Team Tabusoro Fiji this weekend.

“Your presence and encouragement can make a significant difference as our team competes in this exciting match. Let’s rally together to show our pride and passion for our players,” Narovu added.

Cook Islands Residents coach Clive Nicholas and head coach Tavake Manuel are expecting the players to front up in the forwards to secure their set pieces “and make their way down the field and try get in the Tabusoro territory but keeping their defence as their main”.

“Because we are up against guys and individuals who are our firepower in our respective clubs,” Nicholas said.

He stated that the preparation had been poor, as the touring Residents rugby league players had decided not to participate due to concerns about injuries.

According to Nicholas the touring league players are financing their own trip to Australia. Their decision was influenced by the concern that if they were injured, they might lose their place in the team and be unable to recover their expenses.

However, he says there are still a lot of quality players to come forward and they are hoping for a better outcome.

The Town versus Country women’s rugby match will kick off the action at 1pm followed by the Junior Development match at 2pm and the main clash kicking off at 4pm.

Entry fee is $3 for adults and free for children under-16.