Fiji rugby to decide on 'haka'

Fiji's rugby chiefs will meet tomorrow to decide on whether the national sides will restore their match opening cibi, or haka.

If it gets the nod it will be reintroduced at the Wellington Sevens.

Earlier this year on their European tour the Fijians dropped the cibi at the instance of coach Sam Domoni who believes it is a throwback to the days of heathen cannibalism.

Domoni is a member of a fundamentalist nationalist group, the New Methodist Church who are linked to the military regime running the country.

State run Fiji Broadcasting quotes Fiji Rugby Union chairman Viliame Gavoka as saying they will decide on the cibi, something they have not previously had a policy on.

"So there will be a paper drawn up for tomorrow regarding a policy on the cibi," he said.

The board will decide when and how the cibi can be performed.

After the cibi was dropped, the Fiji side went onto a series of heavy defects.

The military appointed President, Epeli Nailatikau, directed the cibi be restored.

''It is simply a challenge ... get me or I get you'' he said.

''Fiji expects nothing less from you, you have the public's support but it expects you to perform your best and more so on behalf of all the people of Fiji, prepare yourself well and go forth to represent the nation.''

The meeting will also discuss a players' letter criticising Domoni for his decisions and directives.

- © Fairfax NZ News