Fiji Bati player Viliame Kikau has been honored with the prestigious Dr. George Peponis Medal, awarded to the Bulldogs’ 2024 NRL Player of the Year. The 30-year-old was vital in the club’s return to the finals after a six-year absence.
Kikau had an outstanding season, participating in 22 matches, scoring four tries, assisting in another four, and achieving 41 offloads while breaking the defensive line 10 times. Fiji Bati head coach Wise Kativerata praised Kikau’s well-deserved accolade, noting his consistency and prowess on the field. “Kikau is Kikau. He has been doing it from day one and he continues to do it,” he remarked, highlighting Kikau’s calm demeanor paired with his aggressive playing style.
Kikau made his international debut for Fiji in 2015 against Papua New Guinea during the Melanesian Cup, contributing to a 22–10 victory. He started his NRL career with the Penrith Panthers in 2017, where he scored a try in his debut against the Wests Tigers, marking the beginning of his impressive journey.
Kativerata expressed surprise at both the Bulldogs’ qualification for the finals and Kikau receiving the award. Currently, Kikau is with the Bulldogs on a four-year contract worth $3.2 million, and he celebrated his 150th game with a victory against the Dragons, finishing 28-10 in Round 23.
Kativerata is preparing to announce a strong Pacific Nations Challenge squad infused with both experienced and new talent. He is in discussions with players like Mark Nawaqanitawase and the young James Valevatu, aiming to build a foundation with emerging forwards.
Among the potential selections are Wests Tigers’ 19-year-old prop Jordan Miller, Dolphin’s Michael Waqa, and young forward Kylan Mafoa. The coach also plans to pair Kurt Donohue and Joe Lovodua in the halves to create a formidable team. Four local players, including the comeback story of the year Keresi Maya, are also expected to be included in the extended squad, along with possible selections Taane Milne, Waqa Blake, and Semi Valemei to bolster the center position.