Former Naitasiri under-20 rep Keresi Maya has excelled in his rugby league career, earning a spot in the Vodafone Fiji Bati extended squad for the Pacific Championships.
The 24-year-old from Vidawa Village, Bouma, Taveuni, is the only local-based player in the 25-member squad, showcasing the strength of Fiji’s domestic rugby league pathway.
Maya’s journey to this point has been marked by hard work and determination. Starting his sports career in Rugby Union, he made the switch to rugby league in 2020 and hasn’t looked back since.
“I like to thank the almighty for giving me this opportunity, I have really worked hard through the past months, and to hearing my name being selected is something special for me,” said Maya.
He adds playing initially for the Nabua Broncos before joining the Navy Albatross team, Maya has continuously honed his skills and showcased his talent on the field.
Grateful for the opportunity to represent his country at the highest level, Maya credits his success to his dedication and passion for the sport.
The FNRL has also confirmed key absences for the Fiji Bati with Viliame Kikau missing this year’s Fiji Bati campaign due to family commitments and while Maika Sivo ruled out because of injury.
The other squad members include Jahream Bula of Wests Tigers, Semi Valemei of North Queensland Cowboys, Sunia Turuva of Wests Tigers and Tui Kamikamica of Melbourne Storm.
Also named are Taane Milne of Huddersfield Giants, Waqa Blake of Bradford Bulls, Brandon Wakeham of Manly Sea Eagles, Jethro Rinakama of Canterbury Bulldogs, Solomone Saukuru of Wests Tigers and Caleb Navale of Manly Sea Eagles.
Others confirmed are Michael Waqa of Brisbane Broncos, Ben Nakubuwai of Norths Brisbane, Kitione Kautoga of Parramatta Eels, Mark Nawaqanitawase of Sydney Roosters, Kurt Donoghoe of Dolphins, Sione Fainu of Wests Tigers, Samuela Fainu of Wests Tigers, Terrell Kalo Kalo of South Sydney Rabbitohs.
Joese Lanyon of Wests Tigers, Kylan Mafoa of Manly Sea Eagles, Jordin Leiu of Newtown Jets, Akuila Qoro of Canterbury Bulldogs, Meil Nasau of Newtown Jets and Joseph Litidamu of the Clydesdales.
The squad will undergo further evaluation, and the final 25-man squad will be trimmed down to 20 players tomorrow, in preparation for the Pacific Championship.
Fiji Bati will meet Cook Islands Aitu on the 18 of this month, at the Santos National Football Stadium.
And on the 1st of next month they meet the Papua New Guinea Kumuls.
