As the NRL Pacific Championship approaches later this month, the Fiji Bati team is finalizing its preparations ahead of the tournament. Coach Wise Kativerata announced that the team will enter camp on October 12, and players are currently focusing on individual training.
The selection of both the men’s and women’s teams will occur following the NRL Grand Final in Australia, featuring the Penrith Panthers against the Melbourne Storm this Sunday. Kativerata emphasized the inclusion of seasoned players alongside newcomers and those based internationally. He noted that local players will have the opportunity to showcase their abilities through matches with the Saru Dragons and Fiji Residents.
“We need to assess how to balance the players; the local players (Residents) will compete against Samoa,” Kativerata mentioned. He also pointed out that the Saru Dragons will face off against Papua New Guinea, describing the encounters as valuable for everyone involved, especially given the limited one-week preparation.
With excitement building for the championship, Kativerata urged fans to support the Fiji Bati team. “We encourage the people of Fiji to come and support the Fiji Bati,” he said.
The Fiji Bati will play against the Papua New Guinea Kumuls at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva on October 19, followed by a match against the Cook Islands on October 26.