Rugby union in Niue

Niue is a tier three rugby union playing nation. They began playing international rugby in the 1950s and have yet to make the Rugby World Cup. Teams from Niue have competed in the Commonwealth games.

When Niue competed in the 2001 Wellington 7s, they took a completely local-based squad, and though they scored tries against England and Canada, they were crushed in most games. Infamously, they surprised everyone by beating Japan 31-19 in 2002.

Governing body

The Niue Rugby Football Union is the governing body for rugby union in Niue. It was founded in 1952 and became affiliated to the International Rugby Board in 1999.

The Niue Rugby Football Union are also members of the Pacific Islands Rugby Alliance.

National team

The Niue national rugby union team first started playing in 1983. They have yet to qualify for the Rugby World Cup.

They can also supply players for the Pacific Islanders team.

As of 2008, Niue are the current FORU Oceania Cup champions, having defeated New Caledonia 27-5 in the final of the Cup's latest edition on September 1, 2008. [ [http://www.radioaustralia.net.au/news/stories/200809/s2352343.htm?tab=sport "Niue take Oceania Cup rugby union final"] , ABC Radio Australia, September 1, 2008]

See also

*Niue national rugby union team
*Niue Rugby Football Union