THE Fiji Bati could enter this year’s Rugby League World Cup with a major boost in their squad depth, with dual-code star Mark Nawaqanitawase and Wests Tigers trio Latu, Samuela and Sione Fainu among the players being considered for the tournament.
Fiji Bati head coach Mick Potter has already submitted a preliminary 40-man squad to the Fiji National Rugby League board as preparations continue, with the inclusion of several high-profile players expected to strengthen Fiji’s chances on the world stage.
The Fainu brothers remain one of biggest selection stories, with the Wests Tigers trio awaiting final approval to switch their international allegiances to Fiji through their grandmother’s Fijian heritage.
Speaking to NRL.com, Potter confirmed officials are working through the required documentation but remains hopeful the brothers will be cleared.
“There’s three players at Wests Tigers who grandmother is Fijian, and that’s the Fainu boys,” Potter told NRL.com.
“We’re trying to get that over the line. They’re just trying to get the documentation right.”
Potter believes the inclusion of the brothers would provide valuable experience and strength to the Bati squad.
“I’m very hopeful. They’d be great players to be playing for Fiji,” he said.
Nawaqanitawase is another major name being considered, with Potter believing the Sydney Roosters flyer could have a significant impact if he chooses to represent Fiji.
“I think he’d be way better to play for Fiji, wouldn’t he,” Potter said.
The Bati coach believes Nawaqanitawase’s involvement could create a major boost for rugby league in Fiji, with his profile capable of attracting greater interest in the sport.
“It would send it to another level if we went back to Fiji and he was there. The floodgates of rugby league would open up there.”
Nawaqanitawase brings valuable representative experience, having been part of the victorious New South Wales State of Origin team and the Kangaroos squad that toured England for the Ashes series last year.
If he commits to Fiji, he could line up alongside established Bati stars including Viliame Kikau, Api Koroisau, Sunia Turuva, Jahream Bula and Miaka Sivo.
The Bati will begin their World Cup campaign against the Cook Islands on October 18 before facing Australia and New Zealand in Pool A, with Potter aiming to guide Fiji back to the semi-finals after three consecutive appearances from 2008 to 2017.
