Young Fiji Bati lock forward Caleb Navale has been slated as one of the top 10 players to watch in the New South Wales Rugby League Jersey Flegg Cup this season.
Navale, who debuted for the Bati in the inaugural Pacific Championship last year, is quickly making a name for himself at the Manly Warringah Sea Eagles and in the realm of rugby league.
After the Pacific Championship, the 21-year-old was rated highly by Bati coach Wise Kativerata as the most standout performer.
He has been part of the Sea Eagles’ pathways since 2022 after making the move from St George Illawarra Dragons.
The past season has been one of his best yet being given the responsibility of captaining the Jersey Flegg Cup side and earned the club’s Jersey Flegg Best and Fairest award for 2023.
In his 20 appearances, Navale scored six tries, had a try assist, made five line-breaks and 30 tackle-busts, averaging 108.1 run metres and 27.8 tackles.
This was topped by his selection into the Bati – 23 years on from when his father, Eparama, made his international debut in the 2000 Rugby League World Cup.
Navale played all three Tests in the Pacific Championships with an average of 103 run metres and 31 tackles.
He also scored a try in the 43-16 win over Papua New Guinea. Still eligible to compete in the 2024 Jersey Flegg Cup, Navale’s under-21s side will be looking to secure a finals spot after finishing four points short in 2023.
