Vodafone Fiji Bati head coach Waisake Kativerata is determined to clinch the Pacific Bowl Championship, set to commence next Saturday. His comments follow the announcement of the Bati squad, which will be led by Tui Kamikamica from the Melbourne Storm.
Among the players selected is Sunia Turuva of the Penrith Panthers, who scored a try in their recent 14-6 victory over the Storm in the NRL Grand Final. Kativerata emphasized that the team aims to compete for the title, not just participate.
In a notable decision, veteran center Michael Jennings has been named in the squad. At 36, Jennings has previously represented both Tonga and Australia in rugby league. Other notable selections include Maika Sivo from the Parramatta Eels, Semi Valemei of the North Queensland Cowboys, Viliame Kikau from the Canterbury Bulldogs, and Kurt Donoghoe of the Dolphins.
Kativerata expressed appreciation for Jennings, whose family roots trace back to Rotuma and Nadi. He also highlighted the inclusion of promising young player Jethro Rinakama, who may debut internationally.
The Fiji Bati is set to face Papua New Guinea Kumuls and the Cook Islands on October 19 and 26, respectively, at Suva’s HFC Bank Stadium. Their last match in Fiji was in 2021. Kativerata noted that both opposing teams feature seasoned players from the NRL, Queensland Cup, and Super League, and acknowledged the challenge ahead.
He stated, “I know it’s a short turnaround, so we have to keep it simple. We must focus on the basics like ball control and solid one-on-one defense, as PNG is deeply passionate about rugby league. Every game is crucial, and we need to treat them as finals.”
The Pacific Bowl Championship will hold special significance for the Bati as they bid farewell to former captain Kevin Naiqama, who plans to retire at the end of this season. Kativerata also mentioned that Api Koroisau is unavailable due to a three-match suspension, while new recruit Mark Nawaqanitawase requires rest after transitioning from rugby union.
Additionally, three local players—Keresi Maya, Ifereimi Tovilevu, and Lemeki Kurumacaiwai—have been invited to train with the Bati during the championship.
In another development, five local players have joined the Fiji Bulikula squad, which will be co-captained by Teaghan Hartigan and Sereana Naitokatoka from the Canberra Raiders. The squad also includes former Fijiana Drua winger Vitalina Naikore and Wests Tigers standout Losana Lutu.
Tickets for the matches are available online, at Jacks stores, and at Damodar Cinemas.
The Fiji Bati squad consists of 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, and Bayleigh Bentley-Hape.
The Fiji Bulikula squad includes 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, and Luisa Yaranamua.