LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
The Fiji Bati enter the Pacific Championships with confidence after an impressive performance in last year's World Cup.
They made it to the quarter-finals where they faced off against New Zealand in a thrilling match.
Despite their best efforts, Fiji fell short and were eliminated with a score of 24-18.
In their previous matches, Fiji suffered a loss to Australia but bounced back with convincing wins over Italy and Scotland.
These victories propelled them to the quarter-finals, where they displayed their prowess and took an early lead of 18-6 against the Kiwis before ultimately succumbing to defeat.
For their upcoming clash against the Cook Islands, Fiji will have five key players from their quarter-final lineup back in action.
Among them is Sunia Turuva, a talented winger from the Penrith Panthers, and Tui Kamikamica, who has taken on the role of captain.
However, they will be without star hooker Api Koroisau due to a calf injury, and Siua Wong, who has been selected to represent Tonga.
The Cook Islands had a tough start to the tournament, suffering a 46-10 loss to the Kumuls.
However, they will have gained valuable experience from the match and will be determined to bounce back strongly against Fiji.
It is crucial for them to tighten up their defense early on, as they conceded three tries within the first 15 minutes in their previous game.
Both teams will be looking to secure a victory in this upcoming match.
Fiji will aim to build on their impressive World Cup performance, while the Cook Islands will seek redemption after their opening defeat.
It promises to be an exciting and fiercely contested encounter.