Fiji’s rugby league team has faced a significant setback ahead of the 2024 Pacific Championships, as brothers Daniel and Jacob Saifiti have decided not to participate in the tournament. The Saifiti brothers last played for Fiji in 2017, and fans will have to wait to see them back in action on the international stage.
In an interview with The Newcastle Herald, the Saifiti brothers expressed their intention to focus on representing Fiji in the upcoming 2026 Rugby League World Cup, which is set to take place in Australia and Papua New Guinea. Daniel Saifiti stated, “I definitely will again, that’s for sure,” while explaining that due to personal commitments and club changes, he cannot make a commitment to play this year. He added that he hopes to be part of the team in the near future.
With the Saifiti brothers unavailable, Fiji will need to assemble a revamped squad for the tournament, as key players like Brandon Wakeham, Apisai Koroisau, and Jahream Bula are also set to miss the event. Head coach Wise Kativerata mentioned that they are in discussions with various other players, including Sydney Roosters’ Mark Nawaqanitawase, to bolster their lineup for the Pacific Bowl.
Fiji Bati will compete against Cook Islands and Papua New Guinea in the Pacific Bowl tournament in the coming months, with the winner advancing to the Pacific Championships next year.
The anticipated Fiji team for the 2025 Pacific Championships includes:
1. Sunia Turuva
2. Maika Sivo
3. Mark Nawaqanitawase
4. Semi Valemei
5. Mikaele Ravalawa
6. Kevin Naiqama
7. Kurt Donoghoe
8. Tui Kamikamica
9. Penioni Tagituimua
10. King Vuniyayawa
11. Siua Wong
12. Viliame Kikau
13. Taane Milne
Interchange players expected are:
14. Kitione Kautoga
15. Gordon Whippy
16. Apisalome Saukuru
17. Caleb Navale