Mum Nanise Proud Of Tui

Fijians from all parts of New Zealand will converge in Wellington on Saturday to cheer the Vodafone Fijian Bati in the Rugby League World Cup ( RLWC) quarterfinal clash against the Kiwis.

“We have a lot of faith in our Bati team and we strongly believe that if Tonga can do it, the Fijians too can do it,” Naibuka Qalulu told SUNsports from Auckland yesterday.

Qalulu said they could see the national noble banner blue flag being waved in the streets of Auckland. “We can also see Tongan flags and this weekend’s matches have really stirred up the excitement for fans particularly for Fiji and Tonga.”

He said no buses have been confirmed yet but families and friends opted taking their own cars to Wellington.

“We can match the Tongans in terms of the number of spectators because we have a lot of Fijians living in that part of NZ particularly in the lower harbour areas of North Island.” Wellington-based Luse Tiqatabua said busloads of Fijians would come down from Auckland and other cities in the North Island.

“Most of us have been contacted also by our Fijians brothers and sisters and other ethnic groups who are very supportive of Fiji team and are coming down to Wellington.”

She said they divided themselves in groups and would be taking turns in hosting the Fiji Bati leading up to the match on Saturday in Wellington.

1. Kevin Naiqama (c), 2. Suliasi Vunivalu, 3. Taane Milne, 4. Akuila Uate, 5. Marcelo Montoya. 6. Jarryd Hayne

7 Henry Raiwalui, 8 Ashton Sims, 9 Apisai Koroisau

10 Eloni Vunakece, 11 Viliame Kikau, 12 Brayden Williame

13 Tui Kamikamica, 14 Joe Lovodua, 15 Jacob Saifiti

16 Junior Roqica, 17 Ben Nakubuwai.18 James Storer, 19 Salesi Faingaa, 20 Sitiveni Moceidreke 21 Pio Sokobalavau.