Warriors add Fijian flair
Ever since Raiders great Noa Nadruku lit up opposition defences for the ‘‘Green Machine’’ in the 1990s, the NRL has been blessed with a long list of Fijian flyers.
Their impact has been greater than ever in recent years, with rookie Parramatta winger Maika Sivo last week becoming the fourth player from the Pacific Island nation to top the tryscoring charts in the last five seasons.
As the second edition of the NRLW kicks off this weekend, the Warriors will be hoping their female compatriots make a similar impression after signing the first two Fijian-based players to play in the women’s premiership.
Timaima Ravisa and Roela Radiniyavuni are only new to rugby league but come from strong union backgrounds, having both represented Fiji in 15s and sevens, while Ravisa was part of the country’s Olympic campaign in 2016.
Ahead of her debut against the Roosters in Melbourne on Saturday, she’s taken inspiration from cross-code sensation Semi Radradra, who is currently gearing up for the Rugby World Cup after making his name with the Eels.
‘‘When we both got introduced to league and were asked to join, the first thing that came into my mind was Semi Radradra, and even Jarryd Hayne. If they both can switch from league to union and union to league why don’t we give it a try?’’ Ravisa told Stuff.
‘‘I was speechless [when she was named for the Warriors]. I didn’t know what to do, I was just standing there staring at the ceremony. I’m blessed and grateful to be selected.’’
Warriors coach Luisa Avaiki credits her Fijian husband for laying the ‘‘groundwork’’ in scouting Ravisa and Radiniyavuni, but it was only by chance that they came across the pair.
While celebrating their wedding anniversary in Fiji last year, Avaiki took the chance to watch a rugby game featuring other players she knew.
‘‘And I just happened to spot some of the Fijian girls,’’ she said. ‘‘I was pretty impressed with their ball skills and speed so I asked my husband to find out who they were and if they would be interested in playing league?’’
As it turned out, Ravisa and Radiniyavuni had just started playing in the local competition.
They managed to source sponsorship to fund their airfares to the Warriors trials and spent a month accelerating their rugby league education playing for Richmond in the Auckland competition.
The time in Auckland was crucial for their selection as Avaiki not only saw a ‘‘real flair and X-factor’’ about the pair, but a strong determination to make the grade.
‘‘We opened it up to them and they had a group of people who were so excited for that opportunity and supported them to try and get here,’’ Avaiki added.
‘‘They were here for a month playing and showed some really good ability. But just their work ethic and attitude, they really wanted it, and what they were willing to sacrifice to be part of the competition.’’
A fullback for Fiji, Ravisa has transitioned into the halves since joining the Warriors and will start in the No 6 jersey this weekend. The 31-year-old will handle the play-calling responsibilities along with Kiwi Ferns half Charntay Poko, skipper Georgia Hale and veteran hooker Krystal Rota, but there’s no doubt her strength lies in her running game.
‘‘’Maima’s’ very up-tempo with the way she plays. She loves loves carrying the ball in hand and she’s got really good footwork,’’ Avaiki said. ‘‘With her experience in sevens, being able manipulate defence, getting into open space and take someone on one-on-one is something that’s going to be exciting to see if she gets those opportunities.’’
Radiniyavuni, who’s capable of playing wing, centre or fullback, has been named on an extended bench, but the coach was equally excited by her potential.
‘‘We had a trial game that she turned up to and she scored this try, just stepped about five girls. You don’t expect she’s going to do anything and then next minute she’s gone.’’