The Vodafone Fiji Bati are fully focused as they get ready for their inaugural Pacific Bowl match against the Cook Islands Aitu, taking place in Papua New Guinea this week. After arriving in Port Moresby from Australia on Sunday, the team held their first training session on Monday, ramping up preparations for this crucial match.
Since the squad was announced just days ago, some notable changes have been made. Players such as Waqa Blake, Samuela Fainu, Sione Fainu, Jordin Leiu, Meli Nasau, and Sydney Roosters centre Mark Nawaqanitawase have been excluded from the lineup. Nawaqanitawase’s absence is particularly notable, as he has been selected by the Australian Kangaroos for their upcoming 2025 Ashes Tour against England, despite initially being part of the Fiji Bati’s extended squad.
Head coach Wise Kativerata will be working closely with prop forward and captain Tui Kamikamica, who is also exploring options in the market after reaching the end of his contract with the Melbourne Storm. The team will bring in other key players, including Kaiviti Silktails captain Gabriel Tunimakubu, who has been called up as an injury replacement for Ben Nakubuwai, and former Silktails player Akuila Qoro.
In their recent encounters, the Fiji Bati have an advantage over the Cook Islands, having won decisively in last year’s competition with a score of 56-6 at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. This upcoming match is critical; after facing the Cook Islands, the Bati will take on the PNG Kumuls on Saturday, November 1, in Port Moresby.
Kickoff for the match against the Aitu is set for 5 pm Fiji time this Saturday. This tournament offers the Fiji Bati an opportunity not only to showcase their skills but also to potentially pave the way for future talents as they build towards the next Rugby League World Cup. As the team prepares, the positivity and determination reflected in their training sessions suggest they are eager to put on a strong performance. The support from fans back home fuels their motivation, making for an exciting atmosphere surrounding the match.