Fiji Bati head coach Waisake Kativerata has announced that preparations for the 2024 NRL Pacific Championships are in full swing. The team plans to travel to Vanua Levu early next month to promote the sport.
“Our preparation is underway this week. We are planning to go to Savusavu from October 7 to 9 and will return to Suva on the 10th,” Kativerata stated in an interview following the Fiji Sports Awards.
He mentioned that a squad of 26 players will be named from the training group, which may include notable talents such as Apisai Koroisau, Viliame Kikau, and Mark Nawaqanitawase. Kativerata emphasized that their presence would enhance the team’s strength.
The coach also expressed anticipation for new talents to step up this season. “We have several young players coming in. Last year, we had 11 newcomers,” he noted, adding that two of them, Kiti Nakautoga and Kele Vunivalu, made their debut in the NRL, which he considers a positive sign.
Kativerata highlighted that these players had the opportunity to enter the NRL at a faster pace than their Australian counterparts, who typically take five to ten years to make their debuts.
Looking ahead, the Fiji Bati is set to compete against the Papua New Guinea Kumuls on Saturday, October 19, and the Cook Islands Aitu on Saturday, October 26.