Former Wallabies star winger Mark Nawaqanitawase is expected to join the Fiji Bati squad for the Pacific Championship taking place in October. This was suggested by Fiji Bati head coach Wise Kativerata during an interview on Saturday night.
Kativerata indicated that there have been discussions with several players, including Nawaqanitawase, who is eager to participate this year, which could significantly contribute to his development as a rugby league player.
Nawaqanitawase comes from Nalebaleba, Bemana in Nadroga, and his mother is Australian. He played for the Waratahs in the Super Rugby Pacific League before representing Australia in last year’s Rugby World Cup. Prior to his transition to rugby league, he competed for Australia in the Paris Olympic Games, where they were defeated by Fiji in the semi-finals. Last December, Nawaqanitawase announced that he would be joining the Sydney Roosters in the National Rugby League (NRL).
Kativerata emphasized the importance of physical and mental readiness in rugby league, stating, “It is a different code altogether and having Mark join the Fiji Bati is crucial for his development in the league.”
The Bati will play against Papua New Guinea at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva on October 19, followed by a match against the Cook Islands on October 26 at the same venue. This presents a valuable opportunity for the Bati to win the Pacific Bowl and compete in a promotion/relegation match in Sydney, Australia, on November 10.
Kativerata acknowledged the significant challenges ahead in leading the Bati towards victory. “Our target this year is about winning. Last year we fell short, and the boys know what is required to be in the squad. We aim to build this team up every year in preparation for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup,” he remarked.
He noted discussions with key players such as Tui Kamikamica, Api Koroisau, and Viliame Kikau to strengthen the team for the qualifiers. When asked about potential combinations in the halves, he mentioned, “I think Kurt Donohue is there, he played well last year. We have Joe Lovodua who is excelling in the Super League in Europe, and we will also consider Jahream Bula.”
Kativerata mentioned the need for the team to remain focused to secure victories against PNG and the Cook Islands to qualify for the promotion relegation final. The 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.
In addition, Kativerata expressed the team’s commitment to community outreach by educating children and youth about the dangers of drug use. He lamented the lack of discussion surrounding these critical issues, stating, “Our numbers are going down, not only in drugs and meth but also in HIV. We can’t deny the truth. The Bati will advocate for healthy living and staying away from drugs.”
The team plans to visit communities, including Savusavu, Nadonumai, and Nabua, to promote their message of health and wellness.