The Fiji National Rugby League has revealed that both the Vodafone Fiji Bati and Fiji Bulikula teams will face notable player absences in their upcoming matches. Viliame Kikau will not be participating in this year’s Fiji Bati campaign due to family commitments, while Maika Sivo has been sidelined with an injury. The team management and athletes have expressed their heartfelt support for Kikau and Sivo, acknowledging the contributions they have made to the national squad.
The Fiji Bulikula team, set to travel to Canada, is also impacted by player absences. Talei Holmes will miss out due to family obligations, and both Losana Lutu and Nanise Vakacavu are recovering from injuries. Officials are hopeful for a swift recovery for these key players.
These setbacks emerge at a crucial time as Fiji’s national teams prepare to compete on the international stage. Despite these challenges, team management has expressed confidence in the depth of talent present in the squad, suggesting that other players are prepared to step up in the absence of their teammates.
In exciting news, the final 20-member Fiji Bati squad is scheduled to be announced this Friday, while the Bulikula aims for a World Cup berth in Canada later this month. This turn of events not only underscores the resilience and adaptability of Fiji’s rugby teams but also highlights a chance for emerging talents to shine on an international platform. With a strong commitment to unity and resilience, both teams remain optimistic about their upcoming challenges, demonstrating the depth and potential inherent in Fijian rugby league.