The Dee Cees Nadera Panthers are concentrating on player development to help them secure rugby league contracts with clubs abroad. Panthers manager Rodney Nair shared this in an interview with SUNsports.
“We do not hold on to our players once they find opportunities with rugby league clubs overseas,” he stated. “This season features a new team lineup.”
Nair explained that they have re-strategized due to most players coming from a rugby union background, which has presented some challenges. “It has been challenging for our coach, Vula Dakuitoga, to bring players together and reach this level,” he remarked. Dakuitoga is noted as one of Fiji’s most accomplished rugby league coaches.
Despite these hurdles, the Panthers have qualified for the Vodafone Cup national quarterfinals against the new team, Waitaci Titans. “Our goal is to perform at our best and reclaim our lost title. We believe in our capabilities given the intensity of the competition,” Nair asserted.
The players are optimistic about their chances against the Titans at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka. “The coach has faith in the players because they have been dedicated to their diet and training,” Nair added. He encouraged Nadera rugby league fans to come out and support the Panthers as they aim to make history in the Fiji National Rugby League Vodafone Cup.
Additionally, Nair mentioned that four players have departed the team to join the Fiji Police Force and Fiji Navy.