NZ HERALD – The Chiefs and Crusaders will make history this week, with thousands of fans counting down to the first ever Super Rugby game in Fiji.
New Zealand’s top two rugby franchises take their round 15 clash to Suva on Friday, where a hefty contingent will make the trip over from New Zealand, including Fijian-born former All Black Joeli Vidiri.
But, Vidiri says, it’s the locals who will be most excited.
“It’s going to be a full house in the national stadium and it’s going to be a big night mate, our people have been waiting for this for a long, long time,” said Vidiri.
“Lots of people in Fiji follow Super Rugby and have a team they support, so for them, this is the Crusaders and Chiefs coming home.”
Tickets sold fast in Fiji when they were released in April, with fans urged to buy tickets three months in advance to avoid missing out.
Two days after tickets went on sale the Fiji Sports Council announced parts of the venue were close to selling out.
Around 19,000 fans are expected to pack out Suva’s ANZ Stadium – where one covered stand holds 4000 people and another 15,000 will fill up grass and concrete embankments.
Online bookings show virtually all hotel rooms in Suva have sold out on Friday night.
Unfortunately, rain is forecast.
But it will be warm, with a temperature of 28C expected.
