FIJI Bati triallist to the Rugby League World Cup Ben Nakubuwai steps into the ANZ Stadium in Suva this afternoon for the Vodafone Battle of the Bati with a dream.
He wants to win a RLWC spot to continue the family legacy in the sport.
He is the son of Pio Nakubuwai, one of the pioneers of the sport here and a member of the Fiji Bati to the 1995 world cup in England.
“I haven’t been home in Fiji for almost five years and it is good to be back. I have already played three Tests and this is my first time in trying for the world cup,” he said.
He said his dad had been encouraging him in his aim to play in the world cup.
“There has been no real pressure from the old man back home. All he said that if I want to do it, I have to give my best.
“I can’t guarantee now that I will get a spot, but I always put my best foot forward for Fiji and to the jersey so that I make my country and my family proud.
“I can’t say I am better than anyone.
“I will just do my job to be the best and hopes it contributes to the team winning.
“Out pool opponents USA, Wales and Italy are going to be strong. The three teams will have NRL experience and there is not going to be any weak team.”
He plays prop for the Gold Coast Titans.
He will play for the Vodafone Overseas Bati side today.
Lovodua cashes in
The Battle of the Bati is also a challenge to Josaia Lovodua, 19, of the St George Ilawarra Dragons. He is from Kadavu.
“It’s always a pleasure coming back to my homeland and getting away from life in Australia. I’m very privileged to be selected in the Battle of the Bati which is definitely going to be a tough game, but I believe I’m up for the challenge.
“I am expecting the Fiji-based players to be strong with a lot of natural talent and athleticism. Being one of the youngest players in the trial, I don’t feel intimidated by the senior players. I love being around them because it gives me the chance to learn things about my game, that I then go away on my own and work on. I am from Kadavu, my village is Vabea in Ono. I am a vasu to Naitasiri, from the village of Naivucini. My father is Cama Lovodua and my mother is Alumeci Sikinairi.”
He is a halfback and five-eighth. He will play for the Vodafone Overseas Bati side today against the Fiji Residents team.
Meanwhile, Tuesday’s edition on Tikiko Noke’s weight of 69 kilogram was a typo error. He has a weight of 118kg. Inconvenience caused is regretted.
