Viliame Kikau of the Fiji Bati has been honored with the prestigious Dr. George Peponis Medal as the Bulldogs’ 2024 NRL Player of the Year. The 30-year-old played a vital role in the team’s return to the finals after a six-year absence.
Kikau had an exceptional season, participating in 22 games, scoring four tries, assisting in four more, making 41 offloads, and achieving 10 line breaks. Fiji Bati head coach Wise Kativerata praised Kikau’s contribution, calling his award well-deserved. “Kikau is Kikau. He has been doing it from day one and he continues to excel,” Kativerata stated. He described Kikau as a calm and composed player who transforms into a formidable force with the ball.
Kikau debuted internationally for Fiji in 2015 against Papua New Guinea during the Melanesian Cup. He made his NRL debut for the Penrith Panthers in 2017 against the Wests Tigers, scoring a try in that match. Kativerata noted that the Bulldogs’ unexpected playoff appearance and Kikau’s accolade came as a surprise to many.
Currently, Kikau is under a four-year contract valued at $3.2 million with the Bulldogs, which began in 2023. He also marked his 150th game milestone with a victory over the Dragons, winning 28-10 in Round 23.
Coach Kativerata is anticipated to announce a robust squad for the Pacific Nations Challenge, featuring both experienced and new players. He is in discussions with players like Mark Nawaqanitawase and young prospect James Valevatu, aiming to include promising forwards to develop the team’s potential.
Potential selections may include 19-year-old prop Jordan Miller from the Wests Tigers, Michael Waqa from the Dolphins, and young forward Kylan Mafoa. Kativerata mentioned Kurt Donohue and Joe Lovodua would likely be paired in the halves, creating an exciting dynamic within the team, which will include four local boys, including the comeback story of the year, Keresi Maya. Other contenders for selection include Taane Milne, Waqa Blake, and Semi Valemei, who could establish a strong center combination.