The Dee Cees Nadera Panthers are focused on player development to help them secure contracts with international rugby league clubs. This was highlighted by Panthers manager Rodney Nair in an interview with SUNsports.
“We do not retain our players once they find opportunities to play for rugby league teams abroad,” Nair stated, noting that this season features a newly formed team. He explained that they had to adjust their strategies this season, as many of their players primarily come from a rugby union background and faced several challenges.
“It was quite challenging for our coach, Vula Dakuitoga, to bring the players together and reach this stage,” he added, emphasizing Dakuitoga’s reputation as one of Fiji’s most successful rugby league coaches.
Despite these difficulties, the Panthers have qualified for the Vodafone Cup national quarterfinals, where they will compete against the newcomers, Waitaci Titans.
“Our goal is to perform at our best and reclaim our lost title. We have confidence in our abilities, knowing how intense the competition is,” Nair said. He expressed optimism that the players felt ready to take on the Titans at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka.
“The coach has faith in the players, as their commitment to diet and training has been commendable,” he remarked. Nair also encouraged Nadera’s rugby league supporters to come out and cheer for the Panthers as they aim to make history in the Fiji National Rugby League Vodafone Cup.
He mentioned that four players from their team have departed to join the Fiji Police Force and the Fiji Navy.