Tuiyafata Travels Far to Support Grandson's Cricket Ambitions

For the past three years, Vosakotobalvu Tuiyafata has undertaken a significant journey from her home on Komo Island in the Lau Group to Suva. Her purpose is unwavering: to watch her grandson compete in the Cricket Fiji Super 8 Championship. Year after year, she travels the considerable distance to support him as he represents their village and pursues his passion for cricket.

Her pride swells as she sees her grandson, Josateki Malani, rise through the ranks. Malani has previously represented Fiji, even captaining the under-19 team on two overseas tours. "I come down every year, not just for this tournament. There’s another one as well earlier in the year, the Easter Games, it’s much bigger every year and we enjoy coming to support our teams," Tuiyafata shared. "My grandson, Josateki Malani, has represented Fiji before; he’s captained the under-19 team twice overseas, and I am really proud of how far he has come on this journey."

Over the last decade, Tuiyafata has observed firsthand the transformative effect cricket has had on their island communities. The sport has provided a pathway for their young men and women to travel to different parts of the world, opportunities that were once mere dreams. The championship commenced today at Albert Park in Suva and is scheduled to conclude on Saturday, showcasing the dedication and talent of young cricketers.

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I come down every year, not just for this tournament. There’s another one as well earlier in the year, the Easter Games, it’s much bigger every year and we enjoy coming to support our teams. My grandson, Josateki Malani, has represented Fiji before; he’s captained the under-19 team twice overseas, and I am really proud of how far he has come on this journey.