The Dee Cees Nadera Panthers are committed to developing their players to help them secure rugby league contracts with international clubs. This statement was made by Panthers manager Rodney Nair in an interview with SUNsports.
Nair emphasized that they do not retain players who have secured contracts overseas. He noted that this season features a new roster of players.
The team has had to adjust its strategy this season, as many players previously played rugby union, presenting some challenges. Nair mentioned that it was difficult for coach Vula Dakuitoga to gather players and prepare them adequately.
Dakuitoga is recognized as one of the most successful rugby league coaches in Fiji. Despite various challenges, the Panthers have advanced to the Vodafone Cup national quarterfinals, where they will compete against the newcomer Waitaci Titans.
Nair stated that the team’s goal is to perform at their best and reclaim their lost title. The players are confident ahead of their match against the Titans at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka.
The coach believes in the players’ dedication to their training and diet. Nair encouraged Nadera rugby league fans to attend the match and support the Panthers in their pursuit of making history in the Fiji National Rugby League Vodafone Cup. He also mentioned that four players have left the club to join the Fiji Police Force and Fiji Navy.