The 24-year old arrived in the country earlier this year and queried at Fiji FA on the possibility of joining a football club. She was later drafted by the Suva womens side and thus was cleared this past week. Back in China she has been playing football since she was 14 years old.
The 2010 Shariff Investments Women’s IDC starts this Friday at the Bidesi and Buckhurst Park in Suva.
Suva women’s football team director Surendra Prasad says Zhu Lei is focused to make a mark. He believes the Chinese based player will further boost their chance of snatching the women’s IDC title which is currently held by Ba.
“She has been training well with the team and has fitted in. From her commitment shown at training, I’m sure she will be at her best come the women’s IDC. Zhu Lei is a very skilful player and it is a good opportunity for the other girls to pick up few tips,” Prasad said.
Speaking to Fiji Football News Zhu Lei says she was looking forward to her debut for Suva.
“I’m looking forward to playing for Suva for the first time. The women’s IDC should be an interesting competition,” she said.
Zhu Lei is expected to strengthen the Suva women’s squad which is already boosted with national reps with the likes of Shirlyn Singh, Mereoni Uluiviti, Lewamanu Moce, Jijilia Luveni and Stella Naivalulevu.
Suva plays their opening match this Friday 10.45am against rival Rewa. Later at 4pm in the clash of the capital cities Suva battles Lautoka.
A total of nine teams will participate in the annual Women’s IDC. Defending champions Ba has been drawn in pool one with Nadi, Labasa, Navua and Nasinu. Host Suva, Tavua, Lautoka and Rewa are in pool two.
The women’s IDC will be held from 3-5th December at the Buckhurst and Bidesi Park in Suva.
Fiji FA MEDIA
Suva secure Chinese lass for IDC
