From SOR Avignon in France to Blacktown Work­ers Sea Eagles.

That’s the journey of Vodafone Fiji Bati centre, Pio Seci, as he gets closer to fulfilling his dream of play­ing in the National Rugby League (NRL). Blacktown plays in the New South Wales (NSW) Cup competition and a feeder club to the Manly Sea Eagles.

Speaking to SUNsports yesterday, Seci said, he was happy to complete his contract with the French club and was selected for the Bati to play in Saturday’s Pa­cific Test against the Papua New Guinea Kumuls in Campbelltown.

“I’m excited to return to Australia after playing for the Kaiviti Silktails last year,” the former Nabua Bron­cos rep said.

“I gained a lot of experience while playing in Austral­ia and France. To return to Australia, is good because it’s closer to home and also to my family.”

Seci added the move to join Blacktown was a timely one.

“I believe that I’ve made the right decision. It’s the world cup year and it’s important to have game time in an Australian club is good. The world cup in England is a few months away,” he added.

Seci was named by Bati head coach Josaia Rabele in the 50-member World Cup squad.

He is now working towards making the final cut.

“To make the final squad I’ve to be consistent with my performance especially playing in the NSW Cup. I’ve set my goals the work starts now with Blacktown.

“I’ll have to keep working hard at training and who knows NRL could be the next step.”

Seci also represented the Bati at the 2018 Rugby League World Cup in Australia.

Feedbacks: simione.haravanua@fijisun.com.fj