CONTINUITY and team chemistry played a critical role for Jone Wesele when naming his Fiji Bulikula’s final 23-member squad for their Rugby League World Cup debut later this month.
Since his appointment to the head coach position back in August 28, Wesele believes following through with the systems his predecessor Joe Rabele had implemented was the best way to keep the team’s momentum rolling heading into the world cup.
Coming into this role, I’m truly glad to have the same coaching staff who were working with my predecessor in the qualifying rounds,” he said.
“So, there’s nothing new it will be the same thing as usual with the last prep going into the world cup.
With overseas based players dominating the squad, USP Riaders prop Naomi Tegu is the lone local player in the squad. The Kadavu lass was a key member of the team during their world cup qualification last year.
And another standout performance in this years FNRLW Premiership coach Wesele is confident Tegu will step up at the World Cup.
“Her inclusion is not by accident she is no stranger in our local competition, and she has proven her worth throughout the competition,” he said.
The Bulikula will commence their Rugby League World Cup campaign against the New Zealand Kiwi Ferns on October 18 at 1.50pm at McDonald Jones Stadium, Newcastle.
On October 24 they will take on France in the Gold Coast, with their last pool game against Papua New Guinea on October 31 also at the Gold Coast.
Fiji Bulikula team: Leilani Ahsam, Teaghan Hartigan, Talei Holmes, Tamika Jones, Ebony Laing, Sienna Laing, Losana Lutu, Tahlia Marshall, Ema Masi, Rory Muller, Sereana Naitokatoka, Tanina Naividi, Elizabeth Naleba, Aliti Namoce, Maria Paseka, Abigayle Sekitoga, Latisha Smythe, Cassie Staples, Naomi Tegu, Nanise Vakacavu, Isabella Waterman, Luisa Yaranamua.
