Former NRL star returns

Veteran Sisa Waqa hopes to defy all odds and make it to the Rugby League World Cup which starts on October 27. The former Melbourne Storm winger’s journey starts on Saturday when he leads the Australian Fijians in the Battle of the Bati. Waqa was the late inclusion to the Wes Naiqama coached- side after he was playing rugby union for Grenoble RC in France.

“I wasn’t playing in the last three

to four months coming off rugby union in France and I’m here with the boys,” he said.

“It will be a bigger occasion especially for these young boys coming to the rugby league system in Australia. It is the first time for us to see each other here and looking forward to a great match against the Fiji Residents. As players and individuals we’re making sure to

perform and the eight and nine spots will fill itself.” Naiqama is keeping his fingers crossed hoping that Waqa makes the final cut.

“I gave him the opportunity to play in the World Cup so he is back in good shape and with wealth of experience.”

The other players are Josaia Lovodua, Isaac Lumelume, Lamar Liolevave, D’Rhys Miller, Ta’ane Milne, Henry Raiwalui, Sitiveni Mceidreke, Kevin Naiqama, Kaliova Tani, Vitale Roqica, Pio Sokobalavu, James Storer, Eloni Vunakece, King Vurabere, Sisa Waqa. Ben Nakubuwai is expected to arrive today.