Fiji’s preparations for the Pacific Championships have taken a hit, with powerhouse forward Viliame Kikau ruled out of the tournament.
The Canterbury Bulldogs star joins a growing list of absentees, including captain Apisai Koroisau and winger Maika Sivo, leaving the Bati short on experience ahead of their campaign.
It was confirmed earlier that Koroisau would be unavailable, and the latest announcement from Fiji has now revealed that Kikau, Latu Fainu, and Sivo, currently playing in the English Super League, will also miss out.
Mark Nawaqanitawase, who had been part of Fiji’s provisional 25-man squad, will instead travel to England with the Kangaroos.
Kamikamica to lead reshaped squad
Melbourne Storm enforcer Tui Kamikamica will captain the side in Koroisau’s absence, with Wests Tigers flyer Sunia Turuva named as vice-captain.
Despite the missing stars, Fiji will still field a strong core of NRL talent, including Semi Valemei, Jahream Bula, Kitione Kautoga, and Kurt Donoghoe.
Veteran Michael Jennings, who has been playing in the lower New South Wales competitions this season, also returns to provide leadership and experience. Fiji will face the Cook Islands and Papua New Guinea in the Pacific Bowl, with the tournament serving as key preparation for their 2026 World Cup campaign.