Canterbury Bulldogs hooker Penioni Tagituimua is anticipated to be included in the Fiji Bati squad today. This comes after Wests Tigers captain and Fiji representative Api Koroisau was suspended for three matches due to a dangerous tackle during his team’s loss to the Eels, leaving a spot open in the lineup.
Koroisau’s tackle on Clint Gutherson in the 52nd minute at Campbelltown Sports Stadium was classified as a Grade 2 offense. Being a repeat offender, this infraction resulted in a three-game ban even with an early guilty plea.
National coach Wise Kativerata praised Tagituimua’s commitment, stating, “In the past, Tagituimua has always given his best for the jersey.” He recalled Tagituimua’s impressive performance during the last World Cup and expressed eagerness to see him back in the squad.
Since beginning his rugby league journey in 2013 with the Nadera Panthers in the Vodafone Cup, Tagituimua has made significant strides. In 2019, he was the sole player from the Fijian domestic league to join Fiji’s squad for a mid-season clash against Lebanon. He was originally chosen as the 18th man, but due to injuries among other players, he made his Test debut, contributing to a 56–14 victory.
The Fiji Bati will kick off their Pacific Bowl campaign against Papua New Guinea on Saturday, October 19 in Fiji, followed by a match against the Cook Islands the following week. The winner of the Pacific Bowl will face the third-placed team in the Pacific Cup at CommBank Stadium on Sunday, November 10, in a match that will determine promotion and relegation for the next year’s tournament. The team selection is expected to be announced today.