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Pacific Rugby Stars Call for Fair Treatment After Series of Logistical Failures Fijian rugby players and fans have voiced frustration over the treatment of the Fijian Drua during their recent Super Rugby Pacific trip to New Zealand, where the team was forced to ride in the back of a luggage truck due to travel mishaps. The situation has led to accusations of double standards, with former players and supporters calling out Super Rugby organizers for the logistical failures. The Sydney Morning Herald  first reported the travel issues, revealing that the Drua’s team bus was unexpectedly canceled upon their late-night arrival in Auckland. Instead of waiting hours for a replacement, the squad had no choice but to ride in the back of a truck booked for their luggage and equipment. To make matters worse, the Drua were denied a late checkout at their Napier hotel ahead of their match against the Hurricanes, despite sharing accommodation with their opponents. The Herald  reported that while the Fijian team had to vacate their rooms hours before kickoff, the Hurricanes were allowed to stay in the hotel until just before game time. Breakdown in Communication Acknowledged Following backlash from former players and fans, Super Rugby Pacific CEO Jack Mesley admitted that the Drua’s travel experience was the result of a series of communication failures. “Essentially what happened was several oversights and breakdowns in communications were identified which created those challenges for the Drua,” Mesley said, as reported by RNZ  and The Sydney Morning Herald . “And we have now addressed those issues with the clubs and an external transport provider. But yeah, it’s really disappointing that it happened.” Nadolo Leads Criticism Former Flying Fijian international Nemani Nadolo was among the most vocal critics of the situation, questioning how such an oversight could happen in a professional competition. “What frustrates me the most is that after a long flight, the team arrives at the airport only to find that their bus is nowhere to be seen. Instead of waiting another three hours for it to arrive, the boys jump in the back of a truck to get to the hotel,” Nadolo wrote on Facebook, as reported by RNZ Sport . “To make matters worse, they're denied a late checkout, leaving them to either wander around or sleep in the lobby for hours—while the Hurricanes squad gets to rest comfortably in their rooms right up until game time.” Nadolo also pointed out the stark contrast in how New Zealand and Australian teams are treated when they travel to Fiji for matches. “When Super Rugby franchises visit Fiji, they are treated like royalty, with police escorts and top-tier hospitality. Can you imagine an Australian or New Zealand team ever being put through something like this?” Drua Look to Move On Despite the controversy, the Fijian Drua are shifting their focus back to rugby as they prepare to host the Chiefs at Churchill Park in Lautoka on Saturday. Drua head coach Glen Jackson acknowledged the challenging circumstances but emphasised that the team remains focused. “We're looking forward to getting back to Lautoka. It's a ground we really enjoy playing at, and to have an eight-day turnaround has been really good for us,” Jackson said. The Drua will be eager to secure their first win of the season after narrowly losing their first three matches. Jackson assured fans that morale remains high despite the setbacks. “Morale's very high, we're starting a fair bit of rotation of our squad. We're massively focused on how to beat the Chiefs,” he said. Calls for Change While Super Rugby Pacific has addressed the travel issues with clubs and external providers, the incident has fuelled wider discussions about equity in professional rugby. Critics argue that Pacific Island teams, such as the Drua and Moana Pasifika, continue to face challenges that other franchises do not encounter. The incident has placed pressure on competition organisers to ensure that all teams receive equal treatment and adequate logistical support. Whether meaningful changes will be implemented remains to be seen, but for now, the Fijian Drua are determined to make their mark—both on and off the field. Sources:   Sydney Morning Herald, RNZ Sport

Moana Pasifika’s highly anticipated Super Rugby Pacific clash against the Gallagher Chiefs, originally scheduled for Nuku’alofa, Tonga, has been relocated to Pukekohe due to logistical challenges, including delays in the installation of floodlights at Teufaiva Stadium. The match will now take place at Navigation Homes Stadium on Friday, March 21, at 7:05 pm. This decision has been met with disappointment from rugby fans in Tonga, who were eager to see Moana Pasifika play on home soil. Moana Pasifika CEO Debbie Sorensen acknowledged the frustration but emphasised the organisation’s commitment to bringing a game to Tonga in the future. Moana Pasifika interim CEO Debbie Sorensen. Photo / Dean Purcell “Our hearts are in the Pacific and that is where we want to be, but it wasn’t possible for this fixture due to things that were out of our hands,” Sorensen told RNZ Pacific. “It’s sad to say that we can’t make it happen this time but are already looking at how we can take a game to Tonga in 2026.” The Chiefs, who were also looking forward to playing in Tonga, expressed their support for future games in the region. “Playing in the Pacific Islands is always a highlight for us,” said Chiefs CEO Simon Graafhuis told RNZ Sport. “We were really looking forward to playing in Tonga, which is why we are supportive of playing there in 2026 if Moana Pasifika schedules another home game in Nuku’alofa.” Tonga Rugby Union CEO Aisea 'Aholelei told RNZ Pacific that the game’s cancellation was due to delays in floodlight installation at Teufaiva Stadium. “The installation of floodlights is being delayed and there were concerns that would affect the 6 pm kick-off,” he said. The Economic Reality of Hosting Games in the Pacific Beyond the logistical issues, former Moana Pasifika CEO Pelenato Sakalia has previously spoken about the financial challenges of bringing Super Rugby games to the Pacific Islands. He pointed out that while the Fijian Drua have successfully hosted games in Fiji, the economic disparities between Fiji and other Pacific nations like Tonga and Samoa make it more difficult for smaller nations to accommodate major rugby events. “When you have a look at the economic disparities between even Fiji and the likes of Tonga and Samoa, you look at the differences in infrastructure, the economic trades, the financial assistance that comes into Fiji relative to what comes into Samoa and Tonga—it’s really challenging,” Sakalia said. With a population of approximately 100,000 in Tonga and 250,000 in Samoa, the lack of scale to support specialist support services and infrastructure remains a significant hurdle. Moana Pasifika Brings the Pacific to Pukekohe Although the team won’t be playing in Tonga this time, Moana Pasifika will still aim to deliver a thrilling rugby spectacle in Pukekohe. This will be their first of two home games at Navigation Homes Stadium this season. On April 19, they will face the Brumbies at the same venue, reinforcing their commitment to engaging with the South Auckland and Counties Manukau rugby communities. This relocation also reignites discussions about the need for a dedicated Super Rugby facility in South Auckland—an issue we previously covered when Moana Pasifika announced their move to North Harbour Stadium as their home ground. Many have argued that a permanent South Auckland venue would better serve the team and its Pacific fanbase, providing a true home for Moana Pasifika in the heart of Auckland’s Pacific community. With the Pukekohe fixtures now set, fans are encouraged to secure their tickets early to witness what promises to be an exciting clash between Moana Pasifika and the Chiefs. While the dream of playing in Tonga is on hold for now, Moana Pasifika remains steadfast in their goal of bringing Super Rugby to the Pacific in the future.

Sydney, Australia –  The NSW Waratahs  clinched a dramatic 29-24 victory  over the Fijian Drua  in their Round 3 Super Rugby Pacific  clash at Allianz Stadium. In a game where the lead changed multiple times , the Drua came agonizingly close to a historic upset but fumbled the ball in the dying seconds , handing the win to the hosts. A Match of Momentum Swings From the opening whistle, both teams showed attacking intent , setting the tone for a high-energy contest. The Drua struck first  through winger Ponipate Loganimasi , who finished a well-worked attacking sequence to give his side a 7-0 lead . However, the Waratahs responded almost immediately. Langi Gleeson , one of the standout performers of the season, powered his way over the line  for a converted try to level the scores at 7-7. The see-saw battle continued when Vuate Karawalevu  produced a moment of individual brilliance, stepping past defenders  to restore the Drua’s advantage. But the Waratahs, using their forward dominance, managed to grind their way back into the game, heading into halftime with a narrow 17-12 lead . Drua’s Second-Half Fightback The second half saw the Drua turn up the tempo , showcasing their trademark flair. Loganimasi bagged his second try  of the game, cutting through the Waratahs' defense to reduce the deficit. Shortly after, Mesulame Dolokoto powered over from a rolling maul , putting the Drua ahead 24-22 with just under 15 minutes to play . With the match hanging in the balance, the Waratahs turned to their trusted rolling maul , a weapon they’ve refined under coach Dan McKellar . In the 76th minute , they were awarded a penalty try , shifting momentum back in their favor and forcing the Drua to chase the game. Heartbreak in the Final Moments With just minutes left on the clock, the Drua launched one final assault. Their powerful ball carriers pushed deep into Waratahs’ territory, and a late penalty gave them a golden opportunity to snatch victory . However, under intense pressure, the Drua fumbled the ball in contact , handing possession—and the game—to the Waratahs. The full-time whistle confirmed a 29-24 win  for the home side, leaving the Drua to reflect on another missed opportunity .

The vibrant atmosphere at North Harbour Stadium during Moana Pasifika’s latest match was nothing short of electric. The crowd, united in song, harmonised to the EFKS Samoan hymn Ia Pepese , while conch shells and the rhythmic beats of Pacific music filled the air. Though the stadium is situated on Auckland’s North Shore, the sheer presence of Pasifika supporters made it feel like a home game in South Auckland. A Team Without a Permanent Home Moana Pasifika has had a nomadic journey when it comes to finding a permanent base. The team initially shared Mt Smart Stadium with the New Zealand Warriors before briefly hosting games at Eden Park, the home of the Auckland Blues. However, as of September 2024, North Harbour Stadium has become their official home ground, with all home fixtures set to be played there in the 2025 season. Head Coach Faʻalogo Tana Umaga acknowledged the significance of a dedicated base for the team and expressed a strong desire for a purpose-built facility in South Auckland. “It would be great if there was a sporting facility in South Auckland that could host Moana Pasifika, but at this moment, there isn’t one. North Harbour is the only available stadium we can train from and call home,”  he said. Despite the distance, Umaga remains confident that Moana Pasifika’s passionate fanbase will continue to turn up in numbers. “Our people are navigators—we have always traveled. So, making the journey from South Auckland to support their team is something they will always do.” Pacific Presence in North Shore Although South Auckland is often regarded as the heart of New Zealand’s Pasifika community, North Shore also has a significant Pacific presence. According to the latest census, around 5.2% of North Shore’s population identifies as Pasifika—approximately 7,600 people. Many of them have embraced Moana Pasifika’s presence in the area, delighted to see a team representing their heritage play at North Harbour Stadium. Among the many supporters frequently spotted at games is Samoan actor Beulah Koale, best known for his role in Hawaii Five-0 . Koale has been a vocal supporter of the team, further highlighting the cultural connection Moana Pasifika fosters within the community. The Future of Moana Pasifika As Moana Pasifika continues to solidify its place in Super Rugby, discussions around a dedicated South Auckland venue remain a hot topic. For now, North Harbour Stadium is their home, but the unwavering support from the Pacific community ensures that wherever they play, the team will never be short of fans.

Final Score: Highlanders 31 - 29 Moana PasifikaDate: February 28, 2025Venue: North Harbour Stadium, Auckland Moana Pasifika produced a thrilling second-half comeback but fell just short in a 31-29  loss to the Highlanders in Round 3 of Super Rugby Pacific. A fast-finishing Moana side dominated the closing stages, but the Highlanders' first-half blitz proved enough to secure a narrow victory. First Half: Highlanders Take Control with a 21-Point Blitz The Highlanders got off to a dream start, striking within the first two minutes when Nathan Hastie  finished off a well-worked move under the posts. Sam Gilbert’s conversion  made it 7-0 early. Moana Pasifika responded quickly through Sione Mafileo (11’) , who powered over the line, but missed conversions from William Havili  meant they couldn't capitalise fully. From there, the Highlanders took control, launching a devastating 10-minute period before halftime: Caleb Tangitau intercepted a pass (31’) and sprinted 95 meters for a try , shifting the momentum firmly in the Highlanders' favor. Tanielu Tele’a (34’) and Max Dunshea (38’) added further tries , punishing Moana’s defensive lapses. Sam Gilbert converted all three tries , giving the Highlanders a commanding 31-10 halftime lead . Second Half: Moana Pasifika’s Stunning Comeback Whatever Tana Umaga said at halftime worked. Moana Pasifika came out with renewed energy, tightening their defense and attacking with purpose. Ardie Savea (46’) sparked the comeback , intercepting a kick and sprinting over the try line. William Havili (65’) added another try , set up by a clever attacking play. Patrick Pellegrini converted both tries , closing the gap to 22-31 . With five minutes to go, Semisi Tupou Ta’eiloa (75’) crashed over , and Pellegrini’s conversion made it 29-31 , setting up a grandstand finish. With Moana Pasifika pressing for a match-winning score, TK Howden’s crucial lineout steal in the final minute  saved the Highlanders, allowing them to close out the game and escape with a hard-fought win. Key Takeaways for Moana Pasifika ✅ Resilient Second Half  – After a poor first half, Moana Pasifika dominated the second 40 minutes, showing grit and determination. ✅ Impact of Key Players  – Ardie Savea was everywhere , Millennium Sanerivi and Sama Malolo provided strong carries, and Pellegrini’s bench impact suggests he could start next week. ❌ Slow Start & Defensive Lapses  – Conceding 21 points in the last 10 minutes of the first half proved costly. Moana will need to improve their early-game defence. ❌ Missed Kicks at Goal  – Havili’s missed conversions in the first half ultimately made a difference, highlighting an area for improvement. What’s Next? Moana Pasifika will be disappointed to have let this one slip but can take confidence from their second-half performance. They now prepare for another big challenge against the Hurricanes next week , looking to turn their strong finish into a full 80-minute performance. For the Highlanders, this win comes as a relief after a shaky second half. They now head into a bye before facing the Hurricanes in a fortnight. While the result didn’t go their way, this match showed Moana Pasifika’s potential—if they can put together a complete performance, wins will surely follow.losses into wins as the season progresses.

In a moving tribute to the late Fa’anānā Efeso Collins, a striking portrait mural now graces the Ronwood Ave Carpark Wall facing Manukau Noa Iho/Hayman Park in Manukau City. The artwork, created by renowned Mana Whenua mural artists Janine and Charles Williams, serves as a testament to Collins' enduring legacy of advocacy, leadership, and service to the people of South Auckland. The unveiling ceremony, held yesterday afternoon, drew hundreds of attendees, including family, friends, community leaders, and members of the public who gathered to honor a man who dedicated his life to championing equity and social justice, particularly for Pacific and South Auckland communities. Chair of the Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board, Apulu Reece Autagavaia, highlighted Collins’ significant contributions to the region. “Fa’anānā Collins was elected to the Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board in 2013, served as Chair, and then as an Auckland Councillor for the Manukau Ward for six years, between 2016 and 2022. At the time of his passing, he was a Member of Parliament after the 2023 elections. He spent his career advocating for equity, social justice, especially for South Auckland and Pacific communities and issues that mattered to them.” The mural, gifted by Janine and Charles Williams, is not just a visual tribute but a powerful symbol of the values Collins stood for. The phrase E le tu fa'amauga se tagata —translated as "Nobody stands alone"—encapsulates his philosophy of collective support and empowerment. It reflects his unwavering commitment to uplifting the voices of those often marginalised and ensuring that no one is left behind in the pursuit of progress. Janine and Charles Williams, deeply rooted in Te Ao Māori practices, are known for their ability to transform urban spaces with culturally infused artworks. Their murals often incorporate endemic flora and fauna, reinforcing the connection between people and their environment. Their artistic tribute to Collins ensures his legacy continues to inspire future generations. Community members at the event spoke of Collins’ warmth, wisdom, and dedication to making a tangible difference in people's lives. Many shared personal anecdotes of his generosity and determination, reinforcing his reputation as a leader who led with humility and heart. The Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board’s decision to support the mural aligns with its commitment to honouring leaders who have shaped the identity and future of the region. The vibrant artwork now stands as a beacon of inspiration, reminding future generations of the power of service, compassion, and unity. As the sun sets over Manukau, the mural stands tall—much like the legacy of Fa’anānā Efeso Collins—etched not only in paint but in the hearts of the community he so deeply loved and served.

The HSBC SVNS Vancouver celebrated its tenth anniversary in electrifying fashion, with Argentina’s Los Pumas Sevens claiming the men’s title in a dramatic showdown. For the third consecutive year, Los Pumas hoisted the coveted trophy, cementing their supremacy on the world stage. Argentina Overcomes South Africa in a Hard-Fought Men's Final Argentina’s men’s team showcased their resilience and tactical brilliance to outlast South Africa in a thrilling final. Luciano Gonzalez struck twice in rapid succession, with Tobias Wade adding a crucial third try to give Los Pumas an early advantage. The Blitzboks mounted a spirited comeback, but Argentina’s solid defence held firm, securing a 21-14 victory and their fourth overall title in Vancouver. Winning captain Santiago Mare praised his team’s relentless spirit, stating, “We are very happy and really proud of the team for all the effort they put in. To be in another final and win against a great rival like South Africa—it’s incredible.” Semi-Final Drama and Bronze Medal Triumphs The semi-finals kept fans on the edge of their seats. Argentina booked their final berth with a tense 7-0 victory over Spain, sealed by Marcos Moneta’s decisive ninth-minute try. Meanwhile, South Africa clinched their place in the final in spectacular fashion, snatching victory from Fiji’s grasp with a last-gasp try by Selvyn Davids. Spain’s men continued their impressive form, capturing their second consecutive bronze medal with a commanding 22-7 victory over Fiji. Canada’s Homegrown Heroes Despite not clinching the title, the Canadian teams gave their fans plenty to cheer about. The home crowd roared as Canada’s men finished the weekend with a spirited performance, showing promise for the upcoming legs of the HSBC SVNS Series. Looking ahead, Canada and all competing teams will turn their focus to Hong Kong and Singapore, where they’ll battle for further glory in the next leg of the HSBC SVNS Series. HSBC SVNS Hong Kong Pool Draw Following the thrilling Vancouver finale, the pools for the upcoming HSBC SVNS Hong Kong (March 28-30) were drawn, setting the stage for another high-stakes weekend. Men’s Pool Draw: Pool A:  Argentina, Fiji, Ireland, USA Pool B:  South Africa, Australia, New Zealand, Uruguay Pool C:  Spain, France, Great Britain, Kenya Women’s Wrap-Up: New Zealand’s Dominance Continues In the women’s tournament, New Zealand’s Black Ferns Sevens once again proved unstoppable, securing their 39th title with a dominant 41-7 victory over Fiji. Stacey Waaka delivered a stunning hat trick, and captain Sarah Hirini celebrated the win, saying, “It’s amazing, we love coming here, we love the Canadian people, and we’re really proud to get another win here.” As Argentina’s men and New Zealand’s women continue their reign, the HSBC SVNS Series moves forward with anticipation for the next chapter in Hong Kong. Will new challengers rise to dethrone the reigning champions, or will their dominance persist? One thing is certain—the action is far from over.

Joseph Parker made a resounding statement in the heavyweight division with a brutal second-round knockout victory over Martin Bakole in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. While this triumph further cements his reputation as a top contender, Parker will not be next in line for a world title shot. Instead, Daniel Dubois is set to face Oleksandr Usyk in a rematch for the heavyweight championship. Parker’s Explosive Performance Originally, Parker was scheduled to face Daniel Dubois, but due to Dubois pulling out with a viral infection, Martin Bakole stepped in on short notice. Despite the last-minute change, Parker showcased his dominance with an aggressive and calculated approach. From the opening bell, Parker controlled the fight, landing crisp combinations and overwhelming Bakole with his speed and accuracy. In the second round, he delivered a devastating right hand that sent Bakole crashing to the canvas. Recognising the damage inflicted, Bakole’s corner quickly stopped the fight, handing Parker a well-earned TKO victory. This win extends Parker’s winning streak to six consecutive fights, reinforcing his status as one of the most dangerous heavyweights in the sport. Dubois vs. Usyk Set for Heavyweight Title Clash Despite his emphatic victory, Parker will have to wait for his chance at a world title. Instead, Daniel Dubois has been confirmed as the next challenger for Oleksandr Usyk’s unified heavyweight belts. Their first meeting in 2023 ended in controversy after Dubois was stopped in the ninth round, with debates surrounding a potential low blow call that could have changed the fight’s outcome. Now, with Dubois seeking redemption, the rematch is expected to take place in the summer of 2025. For Parker, this means a delay in his pursuit of a world title, forcing him to either wait for the outcome of Dubois vs. Usyk or take on another top-ranked contender in the meantime. What’s Next for Parker? With Dubois and Usyk set to fight, Parker must now look at alternative options. Potential matchups could include a bout against former world champion Anthony Joshua, Deontay Wilder, or a highly ranked opponent such as Filip Hrgovic. Given his recent performances, Parker remains a strong candidate for a future title shot, but for now, he will need to stay active and continue building his case as the rightful challenger. The Heavyweight Division Heats Up The heavyweight division is as exciting as ever, with Parker proving that he belongs among the elite. His victory over Bakole was a statement performance, but the politics of boxing have placed Dubois ahead of him in the title race. With a Dubois-Usyk rematch on the horizon and Parker lurking in the background, the heavyweight landscape is set for an exciting few months. Whether Parker waits for his opportunity or takes another major fight, one thing is certain—his knockout victory in Riyadh has ensured that he remains a key figure in the championship conversation.

Tifa Moana Team Manager, Justine Samu at Bluwave Studio today for interview with Sports Talanoa Programme Netball Samoa, also known as Tifa Moana, recently made history by winning the PacificAus Sports Netball Series for the first time. The team not only secured the trophy but did so with an undefeated record, marking a significant milestone in Samoan netball. Team Manager Justine Samu shared insights on the team's journey, challenges, and the future of Netball Samoa in an exclusive interview. A Landmark Victory for Samoa Samu reflected on the magnitude of the achievement, stating that the win was still surreal. “The amount of work that has gone in behind the scenes just to get our team there has been immense,” she said. The victory has now placed Samoa in a strong position to qualify for the Commonwealth Games, with an expected improvement in world rankings, having defeated higher-ranked teams such as Fiji (14th), Scotland (10th), and Tonga (8th). “Our ranking will be released on March 1st, and we hope to break into the top 12 to secure our Commonwealth Games spot,” she added. Team Dynamics and Challenges Samoa entered the competition with confidence in their squad but had only three days to bring the team together before the tournament. “We had a strong team on paper, but it’s another thing to get them to work well together,” Samu admitted. Despite injuries, the team’s versatility proved to be a key asset. “We took a squad of 14 where all players could take the court. Even when we had injuries, our depth allowed us to shift players and maintain our level of performance,” she explained. Keys to Success Samu credited the team’s success to their strengthened culture and support system. “We focused on creating connections and making sure our athletes felt supported, both on and off the court.” This year, the team introduced a wellness manager to provide mental health support, which she believes played a crucial role in the team’s ability to handle pressure. The final match against Scotland was particularly challenging. “We told our players to focus on their own strengths and not be intimidated by the opponent. It was about positive reinforcement and executing our game plan,” she said. Samoa head coach, Natalie Matthews Head coach Natalie Matthews emphasised squad depth, rotating all 14 players effectively throughout the tournament. “We had different combinations that forced the opposition to readapt constantly. This strategy kept them on the back foot while our team remained prepared for any situation.” Overcoming Barriers for the Future Looking ahead, Samoa faces challenges in securing funding and more international matches to further improve their ranking. “Samoa is a small country, and all sports teams are reaching out to the same sponsors. We need to expand our partnerships globally,” Samu emphasised. She also highlighted the need to engage with top Samoan players abroad. “We’ve reached out, but there are contractual restrictions, especially with players in New Zealand and Australia. We need to work around these barriers and encourage more international Samoan athletes to represent their heritage.” A Message to Supporters Samu concluded with gratitude to all those who contributed to the team’s success. “We want to thank Netball Australia, the Australian government, our President Peseta Nomea Simi, and all the supporters back home and abroad. This victory is for all of Samoa.” With their historic win, Netball Samoa has signalled their readiness to compete at the highest levels, and the journey to the Commonwealth Games is just beginning. The team now hopes to build on this momentum and continue making strides in international netball. (Watch the full interview on Wednesday on Sports Talanoa.)

Pope Francis, aged 88, remains in critical condition at Rome's Gemelli Hospital following a severe respiratory crisis. Despite the gravity of his health, the Vatican reports that he has not experienced another respiratory attack since Saturday. The Holy See's latest update indicates that the Pope is alert and continues to receive high-flow oxygen therapy. His blood platelet count has stabilised after receiving blood transfusions to address thrombocytopenia, a condition characterised by low platelet levels. However, recent blood tests have revealed early signs of mild renal failure, which are currently being managed. Given the complexity of his medical condition, the Vatican maintains a reserved prognosis. On Sunday morning, Pope Francis participated in Mass within his hospital suite, accompanied by his caregivers. He expressed gratitude for the global outpouring of prayers and well-wishes. The Pope was admitted to the hospital on February 14 after a bout of bronchitis escalated into double pneumonia. His medical team has described his condition as a "complex clinical picture," noting the presence of a polymicrobial respiratory infection. This situation is further complicated by his medical history, including the removal of part of one lung during his youth, which increases his susceptibility to respiratory ailments. In light of his hospitalisation, all official papal engagements have been suspended. Archbishop Rino Fisichella led the Sunday Angelus prayer in St. Peter's Square, conveying the Pope's spiritual closeness to the faithful. Cardinal Vicar Baldo Reina has called upon Catholics worldwide to continue praying for Pope Francis's recovery and strength during this challenging time. The global Catholic community remains united in prayer, hoping for the Holy Father's swift and complete recovery.Pope Francis's Health Remains Critical Amid Complications.

In a recent show of military assertiveness, China conducted live-fire naval exercises in international waters between Australia and New Zealand, leading to significant diplomatic tensions and disruptions to commercial aviation. The unannounced drills have raised concerns about regional security and the growing presence of Chinese military activity in the South Pacific. The Incident On February 21, 2025, three Chinese warships—a frigate, a cruiser, and a supply tanker—initiated live-fire drills approximately 340 nautical miles southeast of Sydney. The sudden commencement of these exercises forced commercial airlines to alter their flight paths mid-air to avoid potential danger. Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles described the short-notice warning as "disconcerting," stressing that the lack of proper notification posed risks to civilian aviation. New Zealand’s Defence Force also confirmed that they observed live rounds being fired from the Chinese cruiser Zunyi’s main gun. While the warships remained in international waters, the lack of prior communication raised alarm in Wellington. Diplomatic Reactions The Australian government swiftly lodged a diplomatic protest, criticising the short-notice warning and highlighting the risks posed to civilian air traffic. Foreign Minister Penny Wong raised the issue directly with her Chinese counterpart, emphasising the importance of "safe and professional" military conduct in international waters. New Zealand also voiced concerns over the incident. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon acknowledged that while the Chinese vessels operated within legal boundaries, the absence of clear communication regarding their intentions was troubling. Defence Minister Judith Collins reiterated the need for transparency in military operations to prevent unnecessary escalation. China’s Response China’s Defence Ministry defended the exercises, stating that they were "safe, standard, and professional" and conducted in compliance with international maritime law. A spokesperson refuted claims of insufficient notice, asserting that multiple safety advisories had been issued to mitigate risks. Regional Implications This incident marks an escalation of China’s military activity in the South Pacific, a region where Beijing has been expanding its influence through diplomatic and economic engagements. The unannounced drills not only disrupted civilian air traffic but also underscored China’s capability and willingness to project military power near Australia and New Zealand. The event has intensified discussions about regional security and the need for stronger diplomatic coordination to prevent potential conflicts. As geopolitical tensions rise, both Australia and New Zealand are likely to reassess their defence strategies in response to China’s growing presence in the Pacific.

In a stunning display of dominance, the Chiefs thrashed the Crusaders 49-24 at FMG Stadium Waikato in Hamilton, marking their biggest-ever score against the defending champions. The match began with early Chiefs’ pressure, as winger Emoni Narawa opened the scoring within minutes, setting the tone for what would become a ruthless attacking showcase. Despite a spirited first-half effort from the Crusaders, who trailed just 17-14 at the break, the second half saw the Chiefs unleash a relentless attacking onslaught, scoring five tries and exposing the Crusaders’ defensive frailties. The Chiefs’ victory was built on their ability to capitalise on mistakes and a powerful bench performance. Quinn Tupaea, celebrating his 50th Super Rugby appearance, emerged as a key figure with two crucial second-half tries, while Leroy Carter’s explosive pace added another dimension to the Chiefs’ attack. Damian McKenzie, playing at fullback, orchestrated the backline with his characteristic playmaking brilliance, creating opportunities and punishing the Crusaders from all angles. Meanwhile, the Crusaders struggled to regain momentum, with their set-piece faltering under the intense Chiefs’ pressure. With two emphatic wins to start the season, the Chiefs have cemented themselves as early contenders for the Super Rugby Pacific title. Their next challenge sees them host the Brumbies, a team known for their structured and physical style of play. If the Chiefs continue their blistering form, they will remain the team to beat, while the Crusaders face the urgent task of regrouping before their next fixture. This record-breaking victory sends a clear message to the rest of the competition—this Chiefs squad is ready to dominate in 2025.