FOR Fiji Bulikula utility back Sereana Naitokatoka, the 2026 Rugby League World Cup is about far more than making a long-awaited debut.
It is an opportunity to prove that Fiji belongs among the elite of women’s international rugby league — and to bring home the ultimate prize.
As one of the pioneers of the Bulikula since the team’s formation in 2019, the 26-year-old proud pure blood and proud Naitasiri native has witnessed first-hand the remarkable transformation of the side, culminating in Fiji’s dominant performance in the World Cup qualifiers in Canada last year.
Now, with the team just days away from stepping onto the World Cup stage, Naitokatoka says the mission is clear.
Participation is not enough. The Bulikula are going to Australia to win.
“The goal is to win the World Cup. That is why we are all going to this World Cup,” she said.
“It would be a big thing for us to come back with the World Cup, and that is my goal and the team’s goal.”
It is an ambitious target against the world’s best, but Naitokatoka believes the Bulikula have the bond, belief and determination needed to make history.
“Coach Jone said we have to knit our hearts together as one so we can be in unity, because in unity God commands His blessing,” she said.
That message has taken on greater meaning as the team prepares for the biggest challenge of its journey.
Naitokatoka said returning home had allowed the players to reconnect with the people and purpose behind their campaign.
“I know this team has a really great bond, and I’m so glad we chose to come home as we get to see and remind ourselves why we are playing in this World Cup and who we are playing for,” she said.
“So, yeah, it’s really a blessing.”
For Naitokatoka, who has been part of the Bulikula’s journey from its early days, the tournament represents a chance to reward the progress made and inspire those who will follow. The Bulikula begin their World Cup campaign against New Zealand’s Kiwi Ferns on Sunday, October 18, at McDonald Jones Stadium in Newcastle, with kick-off scheduled for 1.50pm.
