Fiji will host an NRL-sanctioned rugby league match for the first time when the Melbourne Storm and Newcastle Knights face off in a trial ahead of the 2024 season.
The game is scheduled for a 1:45 pm AEDT start (2:45 pm local) on Saturday, February 24 and will feature in Round 2 of the Pre-Season Challenge.
Churchill Park in Lautoka – the nation's second biggest city – is the venue for the clash.
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Fiji to host historic NRL trial between Storm and Knights
The Storm's commercial partnership with Fiji Airways is a key driver behind the trial match.
There is also a connection within the team, with Melbourne forward Tui Kamikamica of Fijian origin and captain of their national side.
Storm CEO Justin Rodski hopes the game will help encourage the next generation of rugby league players in the Pacific nation.
“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 are set to spend the week in Fiji ahead of the match, where they will engage in several community initiatives.
"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 added.
"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."
NRL in Fiji: How to buy tickets to Storm vs. Knights trial match
Tickets are already available for the match and can be purchased here.
Prices start at AUD$10 (FJD$15).
Fans can also purchase special travel packages, which are in partnership with Fiji Airways.
