The Radisson Kabara Tanoa has returned to the 2025 National Easter Cricket tournament with the mission, to defend the championship title at Suva’s Albert Park. The tour nament was called off during the Easter weekend and was moved to June 9. Kabasa led by seasoned head coach Alipate Fanifau, carried the weight of expectation of the entire Kabara community. After winning the tournament last year, the team knew every opponent would be coming for them. “The boys know what it takes to win,” said Fanifau. “They’ve been training for three months for this moment. This isn’t just about cricket-it’s about pride, unity and representing Kabara with everything they have.” The team’s roster is a mixture of homegrown talent and mainland-based players who are originally from Kabara but are now residing in Viti Levu He said 26 players travelled all the way from the island to compete, showcasing their commitment to defending the title. The rest joined from Suva and other parts of the mainland, proving that distance can never divide island loyalty. Supporters have been behind them from the very beginning of the tour nament on Monday, bringing energy and encouragement to every match. The team’s unity, forged through culture, hard work, and tradition, has been evident in every innings. Kabara’s campaign includes two teams this year: Radisson Kabara Tanoa and Vosarogo Lawyers Kabara Drua. “We’re not here to just participate. We came to defend what we earned last year and we’re not going down without a fight,” Fanifau said. Feedback: mere.ledua@fijisun.com.fj