Defensive play will be key for the Vodafone Fiji Bati team as they prepare to face the Papua New Guinea Kumuls tonight. This was emphasized by captain Tui Kamikamica after their final practice session at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva yesterday.
Kamikamica, hailing from Somosomo, Taveuni, acknowledged the strong passion of their Melanesian rivals. He reflected on a productive week of training in Suva, focused on enhancing the team’s cohesion among the halves, forwards, and backs, while also integrating new players into the squad.
Scheduled to kick off at 8:10 PM at HFC Stadium, the Bati will feature four players making their debut. Kamikamica, who plays for Melbourne Storm, noted, “The game is going to be won in the middle.” He stressed the importance of generating energy in the half and emphasized the need for solid defensive momentum, stating, “Once we focus on defence, everything will take care of itself.”
At 30 years old, Kamikamica expressed his pride in leading the team for the Pacific Bowl Championship on home soil, marking the first time the Bati played in Fiji since 2001. He acknowledged that defeating PNG is always a challenge, highlighting their aggressive playing style.
“We will be aware of their intensity; they run the ball hard and tackle hard. I’ve spoken to the team about the physicality of the Kumuls,” he said. “That said, we also need to concentrate on our own performance. If everyone handles their individual responsibilities, it will simplify our collective efforts. We’re not overly concerned about what they bring; our focus is on ourselves.”
The return of Viliame Kikau from the Bulldogs, who missed last year’s championship, has been a boost for the team.