The Vodafone Fiji Bati rugby league team has dropped one spot in the latest International Rugby League (IRL) world rankings. Released yesterday, the new rankings saw the Bati slide to seventh place, making way for Papua New Guinea, who ascended to sixth after securing back-to-back victories in the Pacific Bowl Championship.
Head coach Waisea Kativerata remarked that ranking may not be their best, but it reflects the team’s achievements during the Pacific Bowl Championship, which serves as a solid foundation as they head toward the 2026 Rugby League World Cup.
Despite this shift, the Bati remains ahead of several teams, including France, Cook Islands, Serbia, the Netherlands, and Wales.
In other news, the Bulikula women’s team made impressive strides in the rankings, moving up ten places from 26th to 16th. Coach Joe Rabele expressed pride in the team’s progress, especially as they now rank higher than Nigeria, Kenya, and the Philippines. Rabele remains optimistic about breaking into the top ten next year.
Australia continues to hold the top positions in both men’s and women’s rugby league rankings, following their victories in the Pacific Cup, while England maintains their lead in the wheelchair category. Other notable movements in the rankings include Fetu Samoa, which has made significant gains following a successful Pacific Championships campaign, and Tonga’s return to the men’s top four ranks. New Zealand also makes its debut in the wheelchair rankings, indicating an uplifting trajectory for rugby league in the region.
This news illustrates the competitive spirit and potential growth of rugby league teams from the Pacific Islands, signaling positive trends as they prepare for future tournaments. With determination and skill, both the Fiji Bati and the Bulikula have the opportunity to elevate their status in international rugby league, inspiring future generations of players.
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