FIJI Bati head coach Mick Potter admits injuries have disrupted the Vodafone Fiji-sponsored side’s Rugby League World Cup preparations, but the setbacks have opened a crucial window for a new generation of players to stake their claim for a place in the final squad.
With the RLWC2026 kicking off on October 15, Potter is racing against time to finalise his squad after several players suffered injuries during the final stages of preparation.
Potter said he had remained in regular contact with a few players in recent weeks, but injuries had forced changes to his plans.
“I’ve been in contact with quite a lot of players over the last few weeks and we’ve had a couple of disruptions, which has been unfortunate,” Potter said.
“One of our players had to have a shoulder injury and two players got an ankle injury.”
The injuries have reduced Potter’s options, but the Bati coach sees an opportunity rather than simply a setback.
With places in the World Cup squad up for grabs, players who may not have initially been considered first-choice selections now have a chance to put their hands up.
“We’re not running out of troops, but we’re sort of dwindling a little bit which presents opportunities for other players,” Potter said.
That opportunity could prove significant for younger players hoping to break into the national side. Potter said he was excited about giving those players the chance to show what they can offer at international level.
“I’m really excited about that because having opportunities for other players is great for those young men. And I look forward to introducing them into the team,” he said.
The final 23-member squad Bati squad is expected to be named this week.
