Fiji Bati player Viliame Kikau has been honored with the Dr. George Peponis Medal, recognizing him as the Bulldogs’ 2024 NRL Player of the Year. The 30-year-old played a crucial role in leading the club back to the finals after a six-year absence.
Kikau showcased one of his best seasons in the NRL, participating in 22 matches where he scored four tries and assisted in another four. He made 41 offloads and broke the defensive line on ten occasions.
Fiji Bati head coach Wise Kativerata praised Kikau’s achievement, calling it well-deserved. “Kikau is Kikau. He has been doing it from day one and he continues to excel,” Kativerata remarked, describing him as a great player who remains calm but fierce when on the field.
Kikau made his international debut for Fiji in 2015 during the Melanesian Cup against Papua New Guinea and debuted in the NRL for the Penrith Panthers in 2017.
“Bulldogs are in the finals, and no one expected them to be there, nor that Kikau would receive this award,” Kativerata noted.
Currently, Kikau is with the Bulldogs on a four-year deal worth $3.2 million, celebrating his 150-game milestone with the team’s victory over the Dragons in Round 23.
Kativerata is set to announce a strong squad, blending experienced players and newcomers for the upcoming Pacific Nations Challenge. He mentioned ongoing discussions with players like Mark Nawaqanitawase and young talent James Valevatu, indicating plans to include young forwards in the mix.
Wests Tigers’ 19-year-old prop Jordan Miller, Dolphins’ Michael Waqa, and young forward Kylan Mafoa are also expected to be included in the squad. Kativerata plans to pair Kurt Donohue and Joe Lovodua in the halves, creating an exciting lineup.
Additionally, four local players, including comeback candidate Keresi Maya, are likely to be named in the extended squad, along with Taane Milne, Waqa Blake, and Semi Valemei, who could form a strong center partnership.