England vs Fiji: Rugby Summer Series Preview

The ‘Flying Fijians’ from the south pacific are a rugby phenomenon. The game was first played in Fiji as early as 1884 by British, New Zealand and Fijian soldiers and has grown in popularity to become a key part of islands’ national identity since.

They play with a fearless ambition that makes them a dangerous and unpredictable opponent for everyone that faces them on the rugby pitch. Blessed with skilful and athletic players, Fiji has produced several top internationals over the years including some that have gone on to represent other nations like Nathan Hughes (England), Marika Koroibete (Australia), Sevu Reece and Joe Rokocoko (both New Zealand).

Throughout its history most of Fiji’s best players have had to play in New Zealand, Australia or in Europe to progress their rugby careers. However, in 2022 the Fijian Drua joined Super Rugby Pacific, the southern hemisphere’s premier club competition, giving Fiji-based players precious regular exposure to top level domestic rugby.

Players to watch

Former Fiji captain Simon Raiwalui took over the reigns as head coach in February and has a number of exciting young Fijian Drua players and experienced European-based internationals to pick from. Many of them ply their trade in England’s Gallagher Premiership.

Followers of English rugby will be wary of departing Bristol Bears centre Semi Radradra. The former rugby league player lit up the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan with his powerful performances and ability to bring other teammates into the game.

New Racing 92 signing Vinaya Habosi was a thorn in the side of many of Fijian Drua’s opponents in Super Rugby. Billed as one of the fastest players in international rugby, England will need to keep a close eye on the 23-year-old.

Meanwhile in the forwards, Truro-born Sam Matavesi and Edinburgh Rugby No.8 Viliame “Bill” Mata, will lead the charge at the English defence.

What to expect for England v Fiji

England v Fiji encounters have traditionally been high scoring affairs, such is the high risk, high reward playing style of the Fijian team. England have never lost to Fiji in their nine previous meetings (the most recent seven being fully capped internationals) between the two sides.

England scored nine tries in a 58-15 win at Twickenham during their last encounter with Fiji in 2016 – their biggest winning margin against the men from the south pacific. However, with Rugby World Cup places on the line and a Fiji team littered with talent, the 2023 Summer Series encounter is shaping up to be a classic.

See England v Fiji

England v Fiji will be England head coach Steve Borthwick’s final chance to assess his squad before their opening Rugby World Cup match against Argentina in Marseille on 9 September.

Secure your place at the match with official hospitality with Keith Prowse, principal sales partner to England Rugby Hospitality. Find out more and book our hospitality experiences for England v Fiji here.