Fiji rugby brings back 'haka'

Fiji rugby chiefs have restored the country's version of the haka to their top side, despite the coach believing it is a throwback to heathen days of cannibalism.

The Fijian first 15 has been in turmoil following a disastrous European tour this year, topped off with discontent over the performance of coach Samu Domoni.

A member of the military government supporting New Methodist Church, Domoni issued a fatwa to the side not to do the "cibi" or haka before each game.

But as the side continued to suffer heavy losses, even military strongman Voreqe Bainimarama called for the return of the cibi.

The Fiji Rugby Union (FRU) met yesterday and according to Suva media outlets, they voted to restore the cibi.
Board Chairman Bill Gavoka told military controlled Fiji Broadcasting that cibi would be back.

"The board has decided that the cibi will always be part of Fiji rugby," he told the radio.

Rugby had its own culture that went back to the 1820s, he said.

"It has its own culture and traditions bounded by some very strict protocols."

FRU would work with other rugby unions around the world "to protect the tradition , culture and protocols of rugby".

- © Fairfax NZ News