The Fiji under-18 rugby league team is gearing up for an important match against Tonga this Saturday, a game highly anticipated as it marks the first time the Fiji U18 squad will host their Tongan counterparts in Fiji. Head coach Wise Kativerata has expressed confidence in the team, which has been training for over a week, evolving from just 12 players at the start to a full squad of 31.
During their training sessions at Albert Park, the team has been refining their fundamental skills, including catch and pass techniques, running lines, and defensive strategies. Kativerata emphasized the importance of controlling the ruck if they want to secure a victory. “The team from Tonga won’t be giving us an easy game, and I’ve told the boys it’s all up to how they step up on the day,” he stated.
The Junior Bati will travel to Lautoka ahead of the match, where they will participate in scrimmage sessions with the Kaiviti Silktails. This occasion is significant not only for the match but also because it is part of a larger event featuring multiple games, including the women’s match and the Silktails facing the West Tigers.
Kativerata motivated the players by highlighting the opportunity this match represents, particularly as scouts from Australia will be present to watch them perform. He has instilled in them the belief that hard work and dedication will unlock their potential. “Prepare yourself. Hard work always beats talent,” he reminded the team.
This upcoming match not only showcases the young players’ skills on an international platform but also aligns with a broader effort within Fijian rugby to develop junior talent. The preparations have seen improvements in the players’ discipline and teamwork, setting a hopeful tone for their future in the sport.
As fans eagerly await Saturday’s clash, the excitement reflects the potential these young athletes hold for the future of rugby in Fiji, signaling a commitment to nurturing talent that extends beyond the playing field.
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