LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Fiji has officially announced their squad for the upcoming Pacific Championships, revealing that several prominent players will be absent from the lineup.
Already confirmed as missing was Apisai Koroisau, and now it's been disclosed that Viliame Kikau, Latu Fainu, and Maika Sivo, who is currently engaged in the English Super League, will also not participate.
Mark Nawaqanitawase, who was part of the provisional 25-man squad announced last week, will instead join the Kangaroos in England.
Tui Kamikamica has been appointed as the Bati's captain for the Pacific Championships, stepping in for Koroisau, while Sunia Turuva will assume the role of vice captain.
The squad will also include regular NRL players such as Kitione Kautoga, Kurt Donoghoe, Semi Valemei, and Jahream Bula. Additionally, fringe NRL players Michael Waqa, Caleb Navale, Brandon Wakeham, and Jethro Rinakama have been selected.
Bringing valuable experience to the team is former NRL star Michael Jennings, who has played at lower NSWRL levels this year.
Fiji will compete against the Cook Islands and Papua New Guinea in the Pacific Bowl tournament, which serves as crucial preparation for their 2026 World Cup campaign.