The Vodafone Fiji Bati has intensified their training this week in preparation for a crucial match against the Cook Islands, set to take place tomorrow at the HFC Bank Stadium in Suva. This was confirmed by Bati head coach Wise Kativerata.
Kativerata emphasized that the team’s focus for the week is to execute their sets properly and refine their kicking. “We know we can score points anywhere, but we can’t do that if we’re always on the back foot,” he stated. He acknowledged the need to learn from the mistakes made during last Saturday’s game against Papua New Guinea.
“This is an important game as we aim to finish the Pacific Bowl Championship on a high note,” Kativerata remarked. “Credit to Papua New Guinea, but our boys need to be ready to face the Cook Islands.”
The head coach expressed his excitement about international rugby league finally taking place in Fiji, appreciating the support from the crowd. “We are building towards the Rugby League World Cup, with future Fiji Bati players emerging for the next tournament.”
Kativerata noted improvements in player communication on the field during training, saying, “They’re now talking more and enjoying the process, which is encouraging.” He also mentioned that James Valevatu has performed well for Wests in the reserve grade and they will evaluate him this week.
The head coach plans to assess the players’ performances after the tournament concludes. Additionally, several Bati players in the NRL, including Api Koroisau, Mika Ravalawa, Daniel Safaiti, Jacob Safaiti, Marcelo Montoya, and Reagan Campbell-Gillard, were unable to participate in the championship due to suspensions and injuries.
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