The Fiji National Rugby League is beaming with pride after the announcement of Fiji Bati trio Daniel Saifiti, Tariq Sims and Apisai Koroisau to feature for the New South Wales rugby league team in the first State of Origin clash on Wednesday June 9 at the Queensland Bank Stadiumin Townsville, Queensland.
Acting CEO Don Natabe said it was most gratifying to note Fijian rugby league players being selected to play at the highest level.
“We are proud of having Fijian-heritage players in a representative competition that has been the centre-piece rugby league for decades,” he said.
“Many Fijians look forward to the State of Origin matches between NSW and Queensland every year. “It’s terrific to see Fiji being represented at Origin level.”
The Yavuna, Nawaka native with maternal links to Koroiaca in Sabeto, Nadi said it augurs well for the Fiji Bati’s campaign for the Rugby League World Cup later in the year.
“It’s compelling to see Koroisau’s selection in the Origin series.
“We know that we have one of the best for his position in the Fiji Bati squad at the moment.
“The presence of Saifiti and Sims also in there shows the wealth of experience and capability we have on our side going to the World Cup.”
Natabe added the trio’s selection in a strong NSW Origin squad should inspire aspiring footy players of representing the country at the upcoming Rugby League World Cup.
“Surely their selection will inspire the entire extended Fiji Bati squad adding to the momentum of our World Cup preparations. The players are watching each other and they are working hard to make the final cut for the pinnacle event in the sport.”
The 16th edition of the Rugby League World Cup would be hosted by England between October 23 to November 27. Fiji Bati is pooled with defending champions Australia, Scotland and Italy in Group B.
