The Dee Cees Nadera Panthers are concentrating on player development to help them secure contracts with rugby league clubs abroad. This was highlighted by Panthers manager Rodney Nair during an interview yesterday.
Nair emphasized that the team does not retain players who find opportunities overseas. “This season features a new group of players,” he remarked.
He noted that the team had to adapt their strategy this season, as many players previously played rugby union, which presented certain challenges. “Our coach, Vula Dakuitoga, faced difficulties in bringing players together and getting them to this point,” he added. Dakuitoga is recognized as one of the most accomplished rugby league coaches in Fiji.
Despite facing various challenges, the Panthers have advanced to the quarterfinals of the Vodafone Cup, where they will compete against newcomers, the Waitaci Titans. “Our goal is to perform at our best and reclaim our lost title. We have confidence in our capabilities, understanding the intensity of the situation,” Nair stated.
The players are optimistic about their match against the Titans at Lawaqa Park in Sigatoka. Nair conveyed that the coach trusts the players, as their commitment to diet and training has been commendable. “We encourage Nadera rugby league fans to come out and witness the Panthers make history once again in the Fiji National Rugby League Vodafone Cup.”
Additionally, Nair mentioned that four players have left the team to join the Fiji Police Force and Fiji Navy.