Former Wallabies star winger Mark Nawaqanitawase is expected to join the Fiji Bati squad for the upcoming Pacific Championship in October. This prospect was mentioned by Fiji Bati head coach Wise Kativerata during an interview on Saturday night.
Kativerata acknowledged discussions with several players, including Nawaqanitawase, who has expressed interest in participating this year. “He is keen to come on board this year, which is good for his development as a rugby league player,” Kativerata stated.
Nawaqanitawase, who originates from Nalebaleba, Bemana in Nadroga and has ties to Australia through his mother, previously played for the Waratahs in Super Rugby Pacific and represented Australia at the last Rugby World Cup. He also competed for Australia at the Paris Olympic Games, where they faced Fiji in the semi-finals. In December, he was announced as a new addition to the Sydney Roosters in the National Rugby League (NRL).
“Rugby league demands players to be both physically and mentally prepared. It is a different code altogether, and having Mark play for Fiji Bati is crucial for his league development,” Kativerata commented.
The Fiji Bati is set to host Papua New Guinea at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva on October 19 and will also play against the Cook Islands at the same venue on October 26. This series presents an opportunity for the Bati to secure the Pacific Bowl and compete in the promotion/relegation match in Sydney, Australia, on November 10.
Kativerata is aware of the challenges ahead and is focused on guiding the team to success. “Our target this year is about winning. Last year we fell short, and the boys understand what is needed to be part of the squad. We aim to build the team every year in preparation for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup,” he said.
Kativerata has also been in discussions with prominent players like Tui Kamikamica, Api Koroisau, and Viliame Kikau to strengthen the team for the qualifiers. Concerning the halfback pairing, he mentioned, “I think Kurt Donohue is a strong candidate, having played well last year. We also have Joe Lovodua excelling in the Super League. I need to evaluate all available options, including Jahream Bula.”
He indicated a potential positional change for Bula, who is planning to marry on the same day as the match against PNG, which could open up opportunities for Lovodua.
Kativerata emphasized the importance of a focused approach to secure victories against PNG and the Cook Islands in order to qualify for the promotion and relegation finals.
In addition to the competitive aspects, Fiji National Rugby League officials and Vodafone will hold a press conference on Friday to announce the Bati and Fiji Bulikula (the national women’s rugby league) teams.
On a community outreach initiative, Kativerata revealed the team’s plans to engage with communities nationwide to raise awareness among children and young people about the negative influences of drugs. He expressed concern over the increasing challenges related to substance abuse and public health, underscoring the importance of addressing these critical issues.
“We aim to visit places like Savusavu and speak to kids in Nadonumai and Nabua. Our message will focus on promoting healthy living and steering clear of drugs,” he concluded.