As the countdown begins for the NRL Pacific Championship later this month, the Fiji Bati team is finalizing its preparations before convening to train for the tournament. Head coach Wise Kativerata announced that the team will enter camp on October 12, with players currently focusing on individual training.
“We’ll be coming into camp on the 12th and right now, the boys are working on their training individually,” Kativerata stated. The final roster for the men’s and women’s teams will be revealed following the NRL grand final in Australia, featuring the Penrith Panthers and the Melbourne Storm this Sunday.
Kativerata emphasized the importance of both seasoned and new players, as well as the inclusion of those based internationally. He mentioned that local players would have the opportunity to assess their skills by participating in matches with the Saru Dragons and Fiji Residents.
“We need to sit down and see how we can balance out the players; the local players (Residents) will play against Samoa,” he explained. “The Saru Dragons will face Papua New Guinea, and it’s a good game for everyone since we only have one week of preparation.”
With excitement growing for the championship, Kativerata encouraged fans to rally behind the Bati team. “We just want to give a shout-out to the people of Fiji to come and support the Fiji Bati.”
The Fiji Bati will compete against the Papua New Guinea Kumuls at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva on October 19, followed by a match against the Cook Islands on October 26.