Vuniyayawa is 24th Fijian Bati playing in NRL this week

King Vuniyayawa has become the 24th Fijian player playing in the NRL.

The Vodafone Fijian Bati rep was rushed into the Warriors line-up in the last minute after several key players pulled out because of injury.

The most important point for Warriors coach Stephen Kearney is for his team to get a win after losing their first two matches in March just like the Dragons who suffered defeats at the hands of the West Tigers and Panthers to open their season. Another four Vodafone Fijian Bati players are going to boost St George Illawarra Dragons campaign to their first win of the 2020 National Rugby League (NRL) competition.

Brothers Tariq and Korbin Sims have returned from injury as they joined winger Mikaele Ravalawa and centre Brayden Wiliame.

The hosts have pulled in upcoming players in tomorrow’s must win clash against the Auckland Warriors. The Dragons players also supported the loan system to help their injury-hit opposition but are wary of facing the side now considered as the most fans second-favourite team at Central Coast Stadium. Second-rower Tariq said it would be a great opportunity for players outside their club’s top playing squad as there is no Canterbury Cup or second-tier competition for them to play.

“If you were a player trying to cut your teeth in the NRL you would be mad not to jump at the opportunity,” he said.

The Dragons have also welcomed back Cameron McInnes and have to win to keep in touch in the new shortened competition.

The return of McInnes looms as the biggest bonus with Issac Luke expected to shift to the bench and play a utility role.

The early-season form of Tyrell Fuimaono should keep him on the interchange ahead of the likes of Jacob Host and Josh Kerr.