Two passionate rugby league nations, Fiji Bati and PNG Kumuls, are gearing up for a significant match in Suva as they launch their Pacific Bowl campaign. The stakes are higher than ever with the introduction of promotion and relegation in 2024. The victorious team will compete against the third-placed nation from the Pacific Cup for a chance to secure a place in the 2025 Pacific Cup pool.
This first match is crucial, especially with a lively crowd expected at Suva’s HFC Bank Stadium, setting the stage for an engaging display of rugby. Last year, the Bati and Kumuls faced off twice during the Pacific Championships, splitting the results. However, this marks the Bati’s first Test match on home soil since 2000, and captain Tui Kamikamica will have his team ready for the challenge.
Fans can anticipate an intense contest in the forward pack, as Kamikamica and Ben Nakubuwai prepare to set the tone for playmaker Viliame Kikau, while the Kumuls will rely on NRL stars Jacob Alick and Jack de Belin to gain ground in the middle.
In terms of team updates:
Fiji Bati will be led by Storm’s Tui Kamikamica, with experienced players like former captain Kevin Naiqama, who will play his 25th Test, and Maika Sivo making his 11th appearance. Viliame Kikau will play in his 17th Test, while the fullback position will be held by Sunia Turuva, and Kurt Donoghoe will wear the No. 7 jersey. Emerging NRL talents Caleb Navale and Kitione Kautoga are also set to contribute after participating in last year’s Pacific Championships.
For the PNG Kumuls, captain Rhyse Martin will lead a team featuring Jack de Belin at lock, Lachlan Lam at halfback, and Nene Macdonald at fullback. With star hooker Edwin Ipape sidelined, Judah Rimbu steps in after showcasing his skills in a recent match. Kyle Laybutt, in his 12th Test, will look to create opportunities alongside Lam, who has 10 appearances. Jacob Alick will bring experience from the 2022 World Cup and 2023 Pacific Championships.
Statistically, this upcoming game is notable as it marks Fiji’s first Test at home since their 10-6 victory over Tonga in June 2000. The Kumuls have won four of their last six encounters against Fiji Bati, while Maika Sivo has impressively scored nine tries in 10 Test matches. Although the Kumuls have eight players with NRL experience, only two played in 2024. Both teams are bringing their A-game, with the Bati’s Kamikamica and Turuva having participated in the NRL grand final recently, and the Kumuls averaging an impressive 31 points per game to win last year’s Pacific Bowl.