THE Fiji National Rugby League has retracted their decision to host the finals of the Vodafone Cup competition in Ra.
FNRL had a meeting yesterday morning with their sponsors, media partners, clubs and supporters after which they decided to host the games at Buckhurst Park in Suva.
Interim administrator of FNRL Tomi Finau said they had been trying to secure a major sporting ground for the finals since June but were unsuccessful.
He said the initial decision was to host the finals at the Ra Sports Complex in Rakiraki but later had to change that decision.
"We felt that it was commercially right to have the finals here in Suva," Finau said.
"We came to this decision after much consultation, looking at media access, access for our sponsors and fan base and income sources.
"So the games will be played at Buckhurst this Saturday here in the capital city because this is the base of rugby league and we can draw in large number of spectators."
Finau said the venue had to be an enclosed one so they could control its access and whatever happens inside it.
"So Buckhurst Park is our next best option because all the other major sporting venues were unavailable.
"It is enclosed, we can control the number of people coming in and going out properly and the games run smoothly without any interference from anything outside the boundaries.
"Only thing now is we are hoping for good weather so the ground is not spoilt and we urge rugby league fans to come and witness the finals this Saturday," he said
Finau also confirmed the FNRL is still holding talks with Gold Coast-based referee Gyanendra Prasad to come and officiate in the grand final between Makoi Bulldogs and Sabeto Roosters in the premier grade.
In the other finals on Saturday, Lautoka Crushers will play Nadi Raiders in the under-14 grade, the Crushers under-16 and 18 side will face Nakasi Cowboys and Lami Steelers respectively.
Police Sharks will take on Saru Dragons in the reserve grade final.