Nineteen-year-old Jordan Miller, who first visited Fiji with the Australian schoolboys in 2022, has now returned as a member of the Vodafone Fiji Bati rugby league team. This opportunity marks a significant milestone in his rugby career.
Although born and raised in Australia, Miller has Fijian roots through his father, who hails from Savusavu. He expressed his excitement about training with experienced players from the NRL, including Tui Kamikamica from the Melbourne Storm, Maika Sivo, and Viliame Kikau, who he grew up admiring.
Miller is thankful to coach Waisake Kativerata for calling him up to represent the Bati. He made his international debut after starting on the bench, stating, “I’ve always wanted to play for Fiji.” He went on to describe his experience as surreal, particularly being in the company of accomplished players. “I didn’t think it would come this early, but I’m grateful for the opportunity.”
Over the past week, Miller has immersed himself in the team culture, appreciating the twice-daily devotions and the energetic atmosphere of the camp. “There’s a lot of energy, so the camp’s never down; it’s a fun camp to be in,” he said.
This year, Miller signed a three-year contract with the Tigers and made his NRL debut in Round 15 against the Titans, during which the Tigers secured an 18-10 victory. He was also recognized as the player’s player and awarded the best and fairest title at the Wests Magpies Harold Matthews Cup U17s during their Junior Representative Award night in September 2022.