Cricket competitions in Fiji are really only just getting under way this season. The weather in most districts has been very wet and this, combined with the state of grounds has meant that the chances to play cricket have been very limited.

In Suva in particular, the only available ground is the permanent wicket at Albert Park, and the outfield is in a poor condition - a legacy of rugby and other events. Suva competition matches have been of only 20 overs a side and matches have had to be played in the morning and afternoon on Saturdays and Sundays. Only 10 matches have been played to date. Even these have been badly affected by rain. One season - in the late 1970's, the Suva competition played only four half games all season, so it is not all that unusual!

In Nadi and Lautoka, competition has been a little more successful, but weather has also been unkind. Although the district association competitions have not started there have been three 45 over matches between Nadi and Lautoka - all won by Nadi. The outstanding performances have been by one of the Fiji under 19 squad, Inia Namua, who hit a fine 85 not out for Nadi in one game and took 3 wickets for 8 runs in another. The only other standout performance was a score of 47 by Iliesa Navatu, one of the Fiji National squad members.

The late start of regular competitions is badly affecting the Fiji national teams build up to the inaugural Pacifica championships in Auckland, due to start on February 3rd.

A 13 man squad has been selected, and the team has a new captain, Taniela (Dan) Naulivou. Dan has been in the Fiji team for six years. He is a lecturer at the Fiji Institute of Technology.

There are also six new caps at full international level, Colin Rika, Iliasa Navatu, Suliasi Sorovakatini, Tavo Sorovakatini, Kiniconi Bakewa and Josefa Dabea.

© 2001 CricInfo Ltd