Former Wallabies winger Mark Nawaqanitawase is expected to join the Fiji Bati squad for the upcoming Pacific Championship in October, according to insights from head coach Wise Kativerata during an interview. Kativerata revealed that discussions have taken place with several players, including Nawaqanitawase, who is interested in participating, which would benefit his development as a rugby league player.
Nawaqanitawase, whose roots trace back to Nalebaleba, Bemana in Nadroga, has a mother from Australia. He previously played for the Waratahs in the Super Rugby Pacific competition and represented Australia in last year’s Rugby World Cup. Before transitioning to rugby league, he competed for Australia at the Paris Olympic Games, where the team fell to Fiji in the semi-finals. Last December, he was confirmed to join the Sydney Roosters in the NRL (National Rugby League).
Kativerata emphasized the importance of physical and mental readiness in rugby league, highlighting Nawaqanitawase’s addition as crucial for his development in the sport. The Bati will host Papua New Guinea on October 19 and the Cook Islands on October 26 at HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. These matches present a significant opportunity for the Bati to claim the Pacific Bowl and compete in a promotion/relegation match in Sydney on November 10.
With an eye on improving from last year’s performance, Kativerata is focused on building a winning team, which is also a step towards the 2026 Rugby League World Cup. He has been in discussions with key players such as Tui Kamikamica, Api Koroisau, and Viliame Kikau to strengthen the squad. Regarding the team’s halfback pairing, Kativerata pointed to Kurt Donohue, who impressed last year, and Joe Lovodua, who is performing well in the Super League. He also mentioned Jahream Bula as an option, though Bula’s wedding coincides with the PNG match, potentially opening the door for Lovodua.
The team aims to secure victories against PNG and the Cook Islands to qualify for the promotion relegation final. Additionally, Fiji National Rugby League officials and Vodafone will hold a press conference on Friday to reveal the Bati and Fiji Bulikula (women’s national rugby league) teams.
In a separate initiative, Kativerata announced community outreach plans to educate young people about the dangers of drug use. He expressed concern over declining interest in this issue, noting the rise in drug and HIV cases. The Bati intends to advocate for healthy living and drug avoidance, with plans to visit communities in Savusavu, Nadonumai, and Nabua to deliver their message.