Former Vodafone Fiji Bati captain Kevin Ligani Naiqama bid farewell to his playing career in style during Saturday night’s Pacific Bowl championship game, where Fiji dominated the Cook Islands with a score of 56-6 at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. This match marked Naiqama’s final appearance on the field.
At 35 years old, the native of Nabuna, Koro in Lomaiviti, expressed his intention to focus on spending quality time with his family and reflecting on his illustrious rugby league career. Throughout his time representing Fiji, Naiqama has participated in three Rugby League World Cups, captaining the team on two occasions, including the 2022 World Cup in England, where they faced a narrow defeat to New Zealand in the quarter-finals. He has proudly earned 24 caps for the Bati.
Naiqama’s accomplishments in league also include three NRL Grand Finals and two Super League titles. He described his final weeks in Fiji as a deeply emotional experience, stating, “I’m really honoured and privileged to represent my country – it was just so fitting to have my last game here in Fiji.”
Looking ahead, Naiqama mentioned that he would consider his wife Lily’s aspirations as they navigate the next chapter of their lives together. He commended the team’s strong performance and noted that Fiji is well-positioned to contend for the Pacific Bowl Championship, depending on the outcome of the Papua New Guinea Kumuls’ match against Cook Islands.
Having played in the Super League since 2019, Naiqama returned to the NRL in 2022 before rejoining the Super League with Huddersfield, where he has played 52 matches since 2023. Reflecting on his time representing Fiji, he remarked on the unique bond established through heritage and pride in representing one’s country. Upon seeing his family from Koro wearing T-shirts emblazoned with his name and face, he felt overwhelmed with gratitude.
Over his 14-year career, Naiqama has played for several clubs including the Newcastle Knights, Penrith Panthers, Wests Tigers, St Helens RLFC, Sydney Roosters, and most recently, the Huddersfield Giants.
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