Former Vodafone Fiji Bati captain Kevin Ligani Naiqama had a memorable farewell during Saturday night’s Pacific Bowl championship game, which marked his final appearance on the field. Naiqama and his team dominated Cook Islands, winning decisively with a score of 56-6 at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva during the second round of the tournament.
The 35-year-old, originally from Nabuna, Koro in Lomaiviti, expressed his intention to spend time with family and reflect on his illustrious rugby league career. Over the years, he represented Fiji in three Rugby League World Cups, captaining the team twice, including during the 2022 World Cup in England where Fiji reached the quarter-finals before losing to New Zealand.
In total, Naiqama earned 24 caps for the Bati and achieved notable success, winning three NRL Grand Finals and two Super League titles. He described his recent two-week experience in Fiji as uniquely emotional and fulfilling.
“I’m really honoured and privileged to represent my country – it was just so fitting to have my last game here in Fiji,” Naiqama remarked. He also shared that his future plans would involve considering his wife, Lily’s aspirations, as she has been a constant supporter throughout his career.
He praised his team’s performance and noted that the Bati are in a favorable position to secure the Pacific Bowl Championship, depending on the outcome of the Cook Islands’ game against Papua New Guinea this Saturday.
Naiqama played in the Super League starting in 2019 and returned to the NRL in 2022 before moving back to the Super League, where he has played 52 matches for Huddersfield since 2023.
Representing Fiji Bati has been a cherished experience for him, as he highlighted the strong bond that ties the players through their shared heritage. He also voiced his appreciation for the vital role of family in their connection to the sport.
Over his 14-year career, Naiqama played for several clubs, including the Newcastle Knights, Penrith Panthers, Wests Tigers, St Helens RLFC, Sydney Roosters, and most recently, the Huddersfield Giants. He was moved to see his family from Koro wearing T-shirts printed with his name and face during the celebration of his career.
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