‘Launching pad for future NRL content’: Storm announces historic game against Newcastle to be played in Fiji

Next year’s NRL pre-season challenge will feature a historic match in Fiji, with the Storm confirming on Friday that they’re taking their game against the Knights up north to continue the sport’s international growth.

The venue for Melbourne’s second trial game on February 24 was originally listed as TBC but will now be played at Churchill Park in Lautoka, Fiji’s second-largest city.

The Storm will spend the week leading up to the game in Fiji where they’ll head to schools and local rugby league clubs to help grow the game and show kids that there is a genuine pathway through to the NRL.

Storm prop Tui Kamikamica has played 19 Tests for Fiji and was over there along with Storm chief executive Justin Rodski to help announce the first NRL-sanctioned rugby league match in the country.

“We are very excited about bringing the first ever NRL match to Fiji,” Rodski said.

“The support of Fiji Airways and Tourism Fiji has helped to make this groundbreaking match become a reality and we can’t wait to give Fijians the opportunity to see their NRL stars up close and personal.

“We already have a lot of Fijian talent within our game, and this serves as an incredible opportunity to not only grow the sport we love but help develop the next wave of talent and hopefully give more young men and women the chance to play NRL or NRLW.”

Storm players will wear a specially designed training shirt while they’re in Fiji, with the match ball to feature traditional Fijian artwork.

It will be a special match for the Knights as well, with the club confirming they’ll bring “a plethora of exciting rising stars and established NRL talent” to Fiji for the match, which could include Fijian stars Daniel and Jacob Saifiti.

Tickets are already on sale for the match, with the Storm teaming up with Fiji Airways to set up travel packages starting from $1003.

“This historic NRL clash aligns with our strategic efforts to showcase Fiji’s versatility and unique offerings,” Tourism Fiji chief executive Brent Hill said.

“We believe this event will not only captivate sports enthusiasts but will also spotlight Fiji as a destination that seamlessly blends adventure and relaxation.”

Friday’s announcement comes on the heels of the NRL heading to Las Vegas this week to promote next season’s double-header at Allegiant Stadium, with the Storm keen to help the game grow even more in Fiji.

“Rugby league is a fast-growing sport in Fiji and we hope this trial game can be the launching pad for future NRL content to be played here in Fiji,” Rodski said.

“The NRL has been working incredibly hard to expand the game internationally, to bring more fans to the game and hopefully deepen our talent pool.

“They have been very supportive of our plans to play in Fiji and we think this game will be a great way to fast track some of their plans.”