Keresi Maya once feared his rugby league career was over. Now, after making his Test debut for Fiji in the Pacific Championships, the 24-year-old forward is daring to believe in a second chance.
The only Fiji-based player in the Bati squad, Maya’s story has been one of redemption and resilience. After joining the Cronulla Sharks in 2020, his NRL hopes were dashed when COVID-19 forced him home to Fiji.
There, a lapse in judgement during a rugby union game, punching a referee, saw him hit with a six-year ban that he admits changed his life.
“This is like being given another chance”
Speaking to NRL.com, Maya said: “I am so proud. I never thought I would get this chance. It has been very hard for my family because when I was banned, there was a lot of attention in the media. When I wanted to come back to play, my parents were not keen because of that. They just wanted me to become a farmer. This is like being given another chance, and they are so happy for me.”
During Fiji’s 44-24 win over the Cook Islands, Maya made 21 tackles without a miss and held his own against NRL forwards like Brendan Piakura and Makahesi Makatoa. It was a moment that reignited his ambitions.
“I regret what I did… Knowing how hard it is to be a referee made me regret what I did even more,” he said. “I am so grateful to have been given another opportunity, and I still dream of playing in the NRL or Super League.”
With Bati coach Wise Kativerata backing him for a club opportunity, Maya’s comeback may just be beginning, proof that even after a six-year ban, dreams can still find their way back onto the field.