As the highly anticipated match between Fiji Bati and Papua New Guinea Kumuls approaches, Vodafone Fiji Bati coach Wise Kativerata is set to reveal the national squad on Monday morning, following the NRL Grand Final on Sunday.
The selection process has been thorough, with the coaching staff awaiting the announcement of Australia’s squad to ensure they can secure the best players for the team.
Kativerata expressed confidence, stating, “The senior players are available to play, which is a good thing because we are playing in Fiji, and we need all the top players to be ready to come here and play football, as they serve as role models for the young kids of the country.”
While the involvement of Jarred Hayne remains uncertain due to personal commitments, the main focus is on the collective effort of the team to win every match and elevate Fiji rugby league.
“Regarding Jarred, his board is not ready, so I understand him as it has been some time since he played, and he has commitments with his family. We will just wait and see whether he is coming or not, that is entirely up to him, so my focus is on the team for now,” Kativerata added.
He reiterated, “My focus is on the Bati team, and I am not worried about the Kumuls or the Cook Islands; we know where we are heading and want to get to the top.”
Fans are encouraged to rally behind the players as excitement builds for what promises to be an exhilarating match, featuring some of the best talent representing the Fiji Bati team on home turf.
The Fiji Bati will face the PNG Kumuls on the 19th of this month.