The Fiji Bati rugby league team has been dealt a significant setback ahead of the 2024 Pacific Championships, as brothers Daniel and Jacob Saifiti have announced they will not participate in the tournament. The duo last played for their country in 2017 and will have to wait to represent Fiji again until the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, which is scheduled to take place in Australia and Papua New Guinea.
In an interview, Daniel Saifiti confirmed their decision, stating he had communicated with Fiji’s coaching staff, expressing that due to club commitments and other circumstances, he would not be able to commit to this year’s tournament. He expressed a strong desire to return to international play, confirming, “I definitely will again, that’s for sure.”
With the Saifiti brothers absent, Fiji will need to field a restructured team, as other players like Brandon Wakeham, Apisai Koroisau, and Jahream Bula are also unavailable. Head coach Wise Kativerata mentioned that they are in discussions with various players, including Sydney Roosters’ Mark Nawaqanitawase, to bolster the squad for the Pacific Bowl.
Fiji Bati is set to compete against the Cook Islands and Papua New Guinea in the upcoming Pacific Bowl tournament, where the winner will move on to participate in the Pacific Championships next year.