The Nadroga rugby side has suffered a major blow ahead of their first defense of the HFC Farebrother Sullivan Trophy against Naitasiri this weekend.

Nadroga Rugby Union President, Tiko Matawalu confirms that their effort to re-appeal the suspension of six of their players was unsuccessful as the International Rugby Board remains firm on their decision.

The six players include Ulaiyasi Lawavou, Peni Ravai, Seremaia Naureure, Jiuta Lutumailagi, Jovesa Kunawave and Ratunaisa Vatuinaruku.

Matawalu states that the incidents the players were involved in include drinking of alcohol and damaging of property while representing the Fiji Warriors during the Pacific Rugby Cup in Australia earlier this year.

Nadroga will take on Naitasiri in the first challenge of the HFC Farebrother Sullivan Trophy at 3pm this Saturday at Lawaqa Park and you can catch the live commentary on our sister station Viti FM.