Former Wallabies winger Mark Nawaqanitawase is expected to join the Fiji Bati squad for the upcoming Pacific Championship in October. This possibility was suggested by Fiji Bati head coach Wise Kativerata during an interview on Saturday night.
Kativerata remarked, “We’ve been in discussions with various players, including Mark, who is eager to participate this year, which is beneficial for his growth as a rugby league player.”
Nawaqanitawase, who comes from Nalebaleba in Nadroga and has ties to Australia through his mother, previously played for the Waratahs in Super Rugby Pacific and represented Australia at the Rugby World Cup last year. He also competed for Australia at the Paris Olympic Games, where they were eliminated by Fiji in the semi-finals. In December, it was announced that he would join the Sydney Roosters in the National Rugby League (NRL).
Kativerata emphasized the differences in rugby codes, stating, “Rugby league demands that players be in peak physical and mental condition. Having Mark join the Fiji Bati is crucial for his development in the league.”
The Bati’s schedule includes matches against Papua New Guinea at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva on October 19 and the Cook Islands on October 26. This presents an opportunity for the Bati to secure the Pacific Bowl and qualify for the promotion/relegation match in Sydney, Australia, on November 10.
Kativerata acknowledged the challenges ahead, expressing the team’s goal of securing victory this year after falling short last season. “We aim to build the team annually in preparation for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup,” he added.
He has been in talks with key players such as Tui Kamikamica, Api Koroisau, and Viliame Kikau to strengthen the team for the qualifiers. Regarding the halfback pairing, he mentioned, “Kurt Donohue performed well last year. Joe Lovodua is excelling in the Super League, and I will consider our options, including Jahream Bula.”
However, Bula’s wedding coincides with the match against PNG, leaving Lovodua as a potential option. The team must remain focused to defeat PNG and the Cook Islands to qualify for the promotion-relegation final.
Additionally, the Fiji National Rugby League officials and Vodafone will hold a press conference on Friday to announce the Bati and Fiji Bulikula (national women’s rugby league) teams.
On a community outreach note, Kativerata stated that the team will engage with local communities to educate youth about the dangers of drugs. He expressed concern over the diminishing numbers regarding drug use and HIV, underlining the need to address these issues.
“The Bati will advocate for healthy living and encourage children to steer clear of drugs during our visits to areas like Savusavu, Nadonumai, and Nabua,” he explained.