“I’VE seen some big changes since I came in 2023, the players have really improved on their fitness and how they approached the camp, they have joined the camp better prepared after their experience from the past two years”.
This was the impression of Vodafone Fiji Bati head coach Wise Kativerata as the team assembled for the Pacific Bowl Championship in Papua New Guinea.
With several new players in the squad, Kativerata is set to name a few debutants in their opening match against the Cook Islands.
He hopes the debutants will grab this rare opportunity to make a name for themselves.
He adds this experience has helped shaped the careers for many of the Bati players.
“Remember back in 2023 no one knew of these players, Kurt Donoghoe, Kitione Kautoga and Caleb Navale, their experience in the Bati has catapulted their careers in the NRL”.
Apart from putting on a strong performance at the competition, the coach is looking to blood more new players- building the depth of the Fiji Bati side for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup.
The Fiji Bati will begin their Pacific Bowl Championship against the Cook Islands Aitu at 5pm today at the Santos National Football Stadium in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea.
