Fiji National Rugby League chairman Akuila Masi has defended the selection of the Vodafone Fiji Bati squad ahead of the upcoming Pacific Championships, which has drawn scrutiny due to the limited inclusion of local players. Among the selected roster, only one local-based player, Keresi Maya, made the cut, raising concerns about the representation of domestic talent, especially in light of the season’s disrupted domestic competition.
Masi emphasized that the selection process ultimately lies with the coaching staff, most of whom operate out of Australia, who evaluate players based on their skills, fitness, and teamwork dynamics. He stated, “The way the team is selected is compiled by our national coach together with the coaching team. They assess skill sets, fitness levels and combinations, and ultimately, they are the ones accountable for the team’s performance.”
Compounding the issue, the traditional trial match, the “Battle of the Bati,” which typically pits local players against overseas professionals, could not take place this year. However, Masi revealed plans to reinstate this match in 2026, aiming to create a more balanced selection process for future teams.
Despite the current concerns, Masi reassured that the board plans to reassess the selection framework following the Pacific Championships, with a focus on providing more opportunities for local talent. The final squad of 20 players will be announced next week, ahead of the highly anticipated matches.
The Fiji Bati is scheduled to face Cook Islands Aitu on October 18 at the Santos National Football Stadium, with the intention of building on their previous victory over the same team, where they had a commanding win of 56-6 last year. Following this, they will compete against the Papua New Guinea Kumuls on November 1, enhancing their preparation for what promises to be an exciting showdown in the Pacific Championships.
The rise of local players, alongside the strategic endeavors by the national board, paint a hopeful picture for the future of Fijian rugby league, as efforts are made to balance domestic involvement with international representation. The community’s support will be crucial as the Fiji Bati step onto the field, fostering a spirit of unity and competitiveness in the sport they love.