The Dee Cees Nadera Panthers are focused on player development to help them secure contracts with rugby league clubs abroad. This was highlighted by Panthers manager Rodney Nair in an interview with SUNsports.
Nair stated, “We don’t hold on to our players as soon as they find employment or play for a rugby league club overseas,” indicating a commitment to supporting players’ career advancement. He also mentioned that this season features a completely new team.
The Panthers have had to adjust their strategy this season as many of their players primarily played rugby union, presenting several challenges for their coach, Vula Dakuitoga, in building a cohesive team. Nair praised Dakuitoga as one of the most successful rugby league coaches in Fiji.
Despite the hurdles, the Panthers have reached the Vodafone Cup national quarterfinals, where they will compete against the newcomers, Waitaci Titans. “Our aim is to play to the best of our ability and try to reclaim our lost title. We believe in ourselves and understand how intense the situation is,” Nair said, expressing confidence in the players’ capabilities.
The players are optimistic about their match against the Titans at Sigatoka’s Lawaqa Park. Nair noted that the coach has faith in the players due to their positive attitude towards diet and training. He urged Nadera rugby league fans to come out and support the Panthers as they aim to create another milestone in the Fiji National Rugby League Vodafone Cup.
Nair also revealed that four of their players have departed the club to join the Fiji Police Force and Fiji Navy.