Vodafone Fiji Bati head coach Waisake Kativerata is determined to win the Pacific Bowl Championship, set to begin next Saturday. His remarks came after announcing the Bati team, which will be led by Tui Kamikamica from the Melbourne Storm. The squad also includes Penrith Panthers wing Sunia Turuva, who recently scored a try in their Grand Final victory.
Kativerata emphasized that the team is not participating just to make up the numbers. In a surprising choice, he included veteran center Michael Jennings, a 36-year-old with experience representing both Tonga and Australia. Other notable players on the roster include Parramatta Eels’ Maika Sivo, Semi Valemei from the North Queensland Cowboys, Canterbury Bulldogs’ Viliame Kikau, and Kurt Donoghoe of the Dolphins.
The coach expressed his gratitude to Jennings for joining the Bati, noting his connections to the Fiji heritage. He also spotlighted the inclusion of emerging star Jethro Rinakama, who may be making his international debut.
The Fiji Bati will compete against Papua New Guinea Kumuls on October 19 and Cook Islands on October 26 at Suva’s HFC Bank Stadium, marking their first match in Fiji since 2021. Kativerata recognizes the experience both opposing teams bring, with players participating in the NRL, Queensland Cup, and Super League.
He acknowledged the short preparation time and stressed the importance of simplicity. “We need to focus on the fundamentals such as ball control and good one-on-one defense. Every match will be treated like a final,” he stated, reinforcing that the team is not there just to fill a spot.
This championship will hold special significance for the Bati as they will bid farewell to former captain Kevin Naiqama, who plans to retire at the year’s end. Kativerata also noted that Api Koroisau is unavailable due to a match ban, while new convert Mark Nawaqanitawase requires rest after his transition from rugby union. Three local players—Keresi Maya, Ifereimi Tovilevu, and Lemeki Kurumacaiwai—have also been invited to train with the Bati during the championship.
In other news, five local players have been selected for the Fiji Bulikula squad, which will be co-captained by Teaghan Hartigan and Canberra Raiders’ Sereana Naitokatoka. The squad includes former Fijiana Drua winger Vitalina Naikore and Wests Tigers’ Losana Lutu. Tickets for the matches can be purchased online, at Jacks stores, and at Damodar Cinemas.
Fiji Bati squad: Sunia Turuva, Semi Valemei, Maika Sivo, Taane Milne, Jethro Rinakama, Michael Jennings, Kevin Naiqama, Waqa Blake, Kurt Donoghoe, Caleb Navale, Kitione Kautoga, Viliame Kikau, Tui Kamikamica, Jordan Miller, Nathan Kegg-Smith, Kylan Mafoa, Ben Nakubuwai, Peni Tagituimua, Joe Lovodua, James Valevatu, Bayleigh Bentley-Hape.
Fiji Bulikula squad: Ilisapeci Bari, Rusila Camaibure, Asenaca Diranuve, Teaghan Hartigan, Talei Holmes, Mere Kilawekana, Sienna Laing, Losana Lutu, Sereana Maragi, Ateca Naicaucauceva, Vitalina Naikore, Sereana Naitokatoka, Taina Naividi, Aliti Namoce, Ema Rainima, Abigayle Sekitoga, Anastasia Shum, Latisha Smythe, Cassandra Staple, Nanise Vakacavu, Luisa Yaranamua.