Flying Fijian outfit stamp authority in biggest 7s comp in PNG as cup departs offshore

The 2025 Niu Power Sports Tok Rugby Sevens Cup is on its way to Fiji for the first time, after Devo Babas 15-5 victory over the Mantas in the decider yesterday.

The Fijian outfit's presence in the tournament was this year's highlight, as they displayed their famous fast-paced style of rugby union all throughout, with an unbeaten run to finals.

Devo Babas inaugural entry into Papua New Guinea's biggest 7s competition lit up Port Moresby's Bava Park as they kept a clean record in pool games before beating City Pirates 29-15 in semifinals, and went on to claim the Sports Tok title in a hard fought grand final victory over Valley Hunters side.

The Mantas were first to score but the Devo Babas fought back scoring 15 unanswered points to pocket K20,000 and claim the cup in open men's division.

Devo Babas coach Billy Ratute said it was first time for nearly half of the team to travel abroad on a plane and the results were rewarding.

"First time to PNG and nearly half of the team, it's their first time to travel out of Fiji," Ratute said.

Ratute said they are currently enjoying the experience in PNG and acknowledged Niu Power for making their travel to PNG possible.

A take-away for the Fijians was the physicallity endured over the three- day tournament.

"PNG boys here are really tough, they tackle so hard, and they are fast too."

"There is plenty of talent here too, just need to develop the game here," he added.

Coming off as winners of the Marist 7s in Fiji and travelling to PNG has now put Babas team on the radar as they work towards other international competitions.

Ratute said the club is on an exciting path as they continue to build their blocks under Fiji Rugby Union banner.

Several teams from around PNG who took part in this year's edition of the tournament shared gratitude towards the organisers for bringing a team from a country known for its prowess in rugby sevens, as beneficial for measurements and improvements.

Niupower Chief Executive Officer Michael Uari spoke highly of the tournament, reflecting on its growth from humble beginnings in the nations capital to inviting teams from other provinces, and now inviting teams from abroad.

Having a team from West Papua in the past and now a team from Fiji speaks volumes that many in the rugby sevens circles have acknowledged.

The Devo Babas will travel back to Fiji on Tuesday taking the Cup with them.