The Vodafone Fiji Bati team has recently slipped one position in the International Rugby League (IRL) world rankings, according to the latest update. This change comes as Papua New Guinea ascended from seventh to sixth place, spurred by their consecutive victories in the Pacific Bowl Championship.
Head coach Waisea Kativerata reflected positively on this ranking shift, viewing it as an important stepping stone leading up to the 2026 Rugby League World Cup. He emphasized that although the current ranking is not their highest, the team’s performance in recent championships has been recognized.
Notably, the Bati maintains a ranking above several countries, including France, Cook Islands, Serbia, Netherlands, and Wales. This showcases the competitive spirit and growth of rugby league in Fiji.
In a related development, the women’s team, Bulikula, has made impressive strides, climbing ten places in their rankings from 26th to 16th. Head coach Joe Rabele commended his team’s advancement in the global standings, expressing pride in their position above nations like Nigeria, Kenya, and the Philippines. He is optimistic about the team’s potential to break into the top ten in the upcoming year.
Australia continues to dominate the rankings in both the men’s and women’s categories following their victories in the Pacific Cup, while England remains the premier team in wheelchair rugby. Other notable movements include Fetu Samoa’s significant rise in the women’s rankings due to their successful Pacific Championships campaign and Tonga’s return to the top four in the men’s rankings, alongside New Zealand’s debut in the wheelchair rankings.
This shift in rankings reflects the dynamic nature of international rugby league, highlighting not only the competitive prowess of the teams involved but also the ongoing development of the sport globally. With continued dedication and effort, teams like the Bati and Bulikula demonstrate the potential to reach greater heights in upcoming competitions.
In summary, despite a minor setback for the Fiji Bati, the overall landscape of international rugby league remains vibrant, with multiple teams showcasing growth and success. As the sport evolves, there is much to look forward to in the future competitions.
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