May 15 saw the first ever clash between two fully professional rugby sides both representing the Pacific Islands. To toast this occasion, Fijian broadcaster Lailanie Burnes joins the show to review the match and tell us how she’s seen the Drua’s debut season, on and off the field. Before we get to the Drua, we also pay homage to the Fijiana’s successful Super W campaign, as well as both Fijians 7s teams who competed at the Tokyo Olympics (with both medalling) and hear about the growth of rugby throughout the wider Pacific region. With ongoing roles within broadcasting, administration and coaching & mentoring, Lailanie is definitely a rising star in rugby and it was a great coup to get her on the show. Don’t forget to check out our social pages to see the special $7 bill to commemorate the Fijian teams’ Olympic successes. Key Segments [2:30] Lailanie’s start in rugby & linking up with the Drua for their inaugural season [6:00] The growth and strength of women’s rugby in Fiji, including the Tokyo 2020 Olympic campaign which lead to a medal [12:30] The Fijiana, Lailanie’s former team and their extremely successful Super W campaign and hopes for this year’s RWC [16:45] Fiji’s men’s 7s team, the 2x Olympic champions [19:45] Rugby in the broader pacific, with shout-outs to the Solomon Islands, Cook Islands and Papua New Guinea [24:00] Fiji Drua’s first year in Super Rugby Pacific [32:30] Review of Fiji Drua vs Moana Pasifika on May 15, the first ever match between two professional teams from the Pacific Islands! Follow us on Twitter: @OutsideCTRpod Follow us on Instagram: @outsidectrpodcast Email: outsidecentrepod@outlook.com