Kevin Naiqama will be a part of the Vodafone Fiji Bati squad battling the Papua New Guinea Kumuls in their opening NRL Pacific Championship game tonight at the HFC Bank Stadium.
Naiqama was part of the captain’s run unfolding on the ground at the stadium yesterday, as the side finalised their preparations after multiple training sessions at Albert Park this week and various community engagements as well.
Being one of the side’s highly capped players and representing the national side since 2009, he said it was surreal to be a part of the team and playing in Fiji for the first time.
“There’s a lot of feelings and emotions that are riding on it, but ultimately we have a job to do,” Naiqama said.
“With the team being able to play our first Test match in so many years, and also just being back in camp, it’s always a privilege and an honour to don the Fiji Bati jersey.”
While he noted the team’s officials have ensured the team has fully prepared for tonight, the side will advance onto the field with no stones unturned.
“It’s defending your nation at all costs, represent our people, do our families and friends proud and that has been the driving force behind this and behind this jersey,” he said.
Naiqama is the younger brother of Wes Naiqama, who was a part of the Fiji Bati from 2006 to 2014.
