17 Jun 2025

Pasifika Sipoti in brief for 17 June

2:14 pm on 17 June 2025
Fijian Drua fans at Churchill Park, Lautoka.

Fijian Drua fans at Churchill Park, Lautoka. Photo: PHOTOSPORT

Rugby

Former Melbourne Rebels lock forward Angelo Smith is the latest signing with the Fijian Drua.

The franchise said Smith joins the Drua for two years, after previously appearing for the now defunct Rebels in the Super Rugby Pacific competition.

The 24-year-old had played 20 matches for the Rebels.

Fijian Drua general manager of rugby, Baden Stephenson said Smith will add size, skill, speed and experience to the club's forward pack.

Sevens

The Chennai Bulls lead the competition at the Rugby Premier League in Mumbai, India, with two wins from as many matches.

With Fijians Filipe Sauturaga and Joseva Talacolo in their line-up, the side defeated Mumbai Dreamers 24-5 on Sunday in their opening game, before repeating that with a 31-17 scoreline on Monday.

Bengaluru Bravehearts, led by former New Zealand sevens player Scott Curry, are currently second placed with a win and a draw from their two matches.

Six teams are competing in the world's first-ever sevens franchise tournament, with matches continuing on Tuesday.

Boxing

Papua New Guinea boxer Mili Saul has claimed the WBC Australasian Bantamweight Title with a fourth-round TKO victory.

The Post Courier reported Saul already holds the PNG National Bantamweight Title and the Queensland Professional Bantamweight Title.

Speaking after the fight, Saul said the win wasn't just for her, but for her family, her children, and for Papua New Guinea.

League

Papua New Guinea league player Judah Rimbu has returned to Port Moresby where he will join the PNG Hunters for the remainder of the Hostplus Cup season.

The National reported Rimbu has departed from UK Super League side Castleford Tigers.

Castleford head of rugby Chris Chester said Rimbu wanted first team opportunities, but the team couldn't guarantee them and he was granted a release by mutual agreement.

Hunters coach Paul Aiton has welcomed Rimbu's return, saying he's a quality player and brings energy to the club.

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