Fiji Bati player Viliame Kikau has been honored with the Bulldogs’ highest accolade, the Dr. George Peponis Medal, recognizing him as the Bulldogs 2024 NRL Player of the Year.
At 30 years old, Kikau played a pivotal role in the team’s return to the finals after a six-year absence. His performance this season has been outstanding, having participated in 22 matches, scoring four tries, assisting on four more, and achieving 41 offloads along with 10 line breaks.
Fiji Bati head coach Wise Kativerata praised Kikau’s achievement, stating it was well-deserved. “Kikau is Kikau. He has been doing it from day one and he continues to excel,” he remarked. Kativerata added that Kikau is a formidable player, demonstrating composure on the field but becoming intensely aggressive when in possession of the ball.
Kikau marked his international debut for Fiji in 2015 against Papua New Guinea during the Melanesian Cup, contributing to a 22–10 victory while coming off the bench. He later made his NRL debut with the Penrith Panthers in 2017 against the Wests Tigers, where he scored a try in a 36–2 win.
Kativerata noted the unexpected success of the Bulldogs in making the finals, along with Kikau’s recognition. Kikau is currently in the midst of a four-year, $3.2 million contract with the Bulldogs, which began in 2023. He recently celebrated his 150th game milestone in a fitting fashion as the Bulldogs triumphed over the Dragons with a score of 28-10 in Round 23.
Looking ahead, Coach Kativerata is set to announce a strong squad filled with both experienced and newer players for the Pacific Nations Challenge. He mentioned ongoing discussions with players like Mark Nawaqanitawase and young talent James Valevatu.
He aims to include several young forwards to develop their skills. Expected selections include 19-year-old prop Jordan Miller from Wests Tigers, Michael Waqa from the Dolphins, and forward Kylan Mafoa. Kativerata plans to utilize Kurt Donohue and Joe Lovodua in the halves, emphasizing the team’s offensive potential.
Additionally, four local players, including the comeback player of the year Keresi Maya, are anticipated to be part of the extended squad. Other potential selections include Taane Milne, Waqa Blake, and Semi Valemei, who could form a strong center pairing.