The Nadroga 15s rugby team will kick off their Digicel Cup campaign against reigning champions Naitasiri in enemy territory on Friday evening without the luxury of players who helped defend the Farebrother Sullivan trophy last season.

Coach Esala Nauga will rely on a squad that on paper does not pose a threat to Naitasiri but he has a lot of faith in them that they can do the Stallions proud on Friday.

More than 10 Nadroga players are with the Fiji Warriors in New Zealand, while the likes of Joeli Lutumailagi, Miti Nacagilevu and Nemani Nagusa are in camp with the 7's team.

Nadroga’s past records against Naitasiri in the opening Digicel Cup game has not been encouraging as they have failed to beat them in their past 3 clashes.

Naitasiri hosts Nadroga at Ratu Cakobau Park on Friday at 6pm.

Story by: Dreu Vukailagi.