The Fijian Prime Minister’s XIII will have no pressure playing against some of the best rugby league players in the world.

Comprised of local talents, they will take on the Australian Prime Minister’s XIII in their first ever match today at the ANZ Stadium, Suva, at 7.30pm.

Coach Brandon Costin said the players are ready.

“This is a chance of a lifetime for the local players to have fun, there’s pressure on Australia as they are expected to win,” he said.

“There’s no pressure on us, we’re just part of history here that is the very first Fijian PM XIII.

“And this is something that they will tell their grandchildren about. It’s just about enjoying the whole experience.

“The hardest part is trying to contain that excitement so they don’t run out of energy before game time.

“We got a night game so they get to be nervous and excited all day. We are going to have to them pretty steady before the game. This is the opportunity they’ve been waiting for since they were kids. The whole excitement in the camp is just fever pitch.

“Preparations have been going well. We did lot of our training last week in camp at Uprising Beach Resort. This week we have been busy promoting the game.”

Costin added the inclusion of three Fiji Bati players in the team will boost the side.

“Three players with Bati experience arrived on Tuesday and they will be starting from the bench. “Our starting XIII will comprise local players.

“This is the opportunity to rub shoulders with some of the best in the game.

Team captain Luke Nadurutalo said the players are ready.

“ We have been working hard during training this week. We know the type of game the Australians will bring,” he said.

“We have to do the small things right if we are going to win, the boys are relaxed and focused for tonight’s game.”

The Fiji Prime Minister’s XIII team during the captains run at the ANZ Stadium, Suva on October 10,2019. Photo: Simione Haravanua.

Edited by Osea Bola

Feedback: simione.haravanua@fijisun.com.fj