FORMER 2013 Vodafone Fiji Bati Rugby League World Cup (RLWC) player, Ilisavani Jegesa Waqanivavalagi optimistic of his chances in making the final squad for the second time after this year’s Battle of the Bati.
Despite some major setbacks in his career because of the string of juries he suffered and a broken ankle that ruled him out for over three years, Waqanivavalagi says, “it’s game one”.
“I broke my ankle in Cook Islands during a tour after the 2013 RLWC and it took me more than three years to recover from it,” Waqanivavalagi said.
He previously featured in the Vodafone Fiji Bati Residents for the Battle of the Bati in 2013.
Waqanivavalagi played in the centre position, later switching to his current position at lock.
“This my second Battle of the Bati, this is not an easy position to be playing, but have been learning as much as I can and I will be working to improve with every game.
“I know that I have to really dig deep and grab this opportunity with both hands.”
The Naivilaca, Rewa, native thanked his family for their support.
“I would like to dedicate this week’s game to my wife Adi Peniana Tagimoucia Masi and my two children Steve and Abigail Waqanivavalagi.
“I want to thank them for supporting me in my journey. My game this week is for them,” he said.
He plays for the Nabua Broncos in the Fiji National Rugby League (FNRL) competition and for the Suva Eagles in the Vodafone Inter-Zone competition.
