The curtains finally fell on the career of one of Fiji Bati’s greatest sons Korbin Sims yesterday at the 2021 Rugby League World Cup.
The 32-year-old forward, who was one of the Bati’s standout players in the 18-24 loss to New Zealand in the quarter-finals at MKM Stadium in Hull.
Sims finally played his last game of rugby league in front of 7080 fans mostly Fijians living in the UK.
“My body’s had it. I’ve been living away from my son for a couple of years now so it’s time for me to go home and be a hands-on dad again,” said the former Hull KR player.
“Six months ago I made the decision to retire at the end of the year and I had already ruled myself out of the world cup. Just as the boys were getting ready for that England game, Kevin Naiqama called me and asked if I wanted to play again and I’ve made the decision.
“I couldn’t be happier doing it this way now. I went out on my terms, I went out the way I started my career in a world cup so I’m pretty happy with my decision to return home and to being a dad.”
Sims made his Fiji debut when he was selected in the Fiji 24-man squad along with his brothers Ashton and Tariq for the 2013 Rugby League World Cup.
He played in three matches and scored a try in his Fiji international debut against Ireland in the 32-14 win at Spotland Stadium.
He went on to play 12 test matches and scored three tries.
Meanwhile, Fiji Bati head coach Wise Kativerata took his hat off for his players.
“I’m really proud of the boys. They hung in there until the last minute,” Kativerata said.
“Playing against an experienced side you’ve got to do the basics right. We ended on a high
. “We can’t change much. What happened is gone and full credit to the boys. “We don’t have much but we’re going to move on from here.”
