The Vodafone Fiji Bati has ramped up their training intensity this week in preparation for a crucial match against the Cook Islands tomorrow at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. This development was confirmed by Bati head coach Wise Kativerata.
Kativerata emphasized that the focus for this week is on refining their execution in both completing sets and delivering accurate kicks. He acknowledged that while the team has the capability to score points from various positions on the field, they cannot do so if they are constantly placed on the defensive.
He expressed the need for the team to learn from their previous game against Papua New Guinea, which he described as disappointing. “It’s an important game as we want to end this Pacific Bowl Championship on a high note. Credit to Papua New Guinea, but our boys need to be prepared against the Cook Islands,” Kativerata noted.
The coach also expressed enthusiasm about the arrival of international rugby league in Fiji. He thanked the fans for their support and highlighted the development of future Fiji Bati players for the upcoming Rugby League World Cup.
Kativerata mentioned that he has been impressed with the players’ communication during training, noting that they are engaging more with each other and enjoying the process. He also highlighted the performance of James Valevatu, who has excelled at Wests in the reserve grade, and expressed a desire to evaluate him further this week.
The coach plans to assess the players’ performances at the conclusion of the tournament. Notably, several Bati players who are currently in the NRL were unable to join the championship due to suspensions and injuries, including Api Koroisau, Mika Ravalawa, Daniel Safaiti, Jacob Safaiti, Marcelo Montoya, and Reagan Campbell-Gillard.
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