Vodafone Fijian Bati head coach, Josaia Rabele, has put measures in place in case his main players are selected to represent Australia at this year’s Rugby League World Cup in London.

This was after three Bati players, Daniel Saifiti, Tariq Sims and Api Koroisau were named in a strong New South Wales Blues side for the 2021 State of Origin Series2021 State of Origin Series opener.

Speaking to SUNsports yesterday Rabele said losing these players to Australia would open new doors for young players.

“We were relying on these three players to play for the Bati at the World Cup,” he said.

“We know that our players playing in the NRL (National Rugby League) have a dream of playing in the Origin or to play for Australia at the World Cup.

“For me, I see that Australia always look at the development side of things most importantly for a developing rugby league country like us.

“There are lots of players who are playing in the NRL that we can select from.”

Rabele wished the players well in the Origin.

“For me personally, if they are selected to play for Australia I wish them nothing but the very best.”

The wily coach said, if that happens their departure have opened up doors to upcoming players, like those in the Kaiviti Silktails side who have what it takes to represent Fiji at the World Cup.

“I want to remind our Bati players that now is the time to work hard for the three spots left vacant by these players, if they decide to leave,” he said.

“We’ve been monitoring some players in the Silktails team and some players that are currently playing in Australia.

“So this is their opportunity if these three players are selected by Australia.

“We were supposed to be in Australia now to announce our best 30 players for the World Cup.

“For now there is no confirmation on our travel to Australia.

“And apart from the naming of the squad we also want to confirm everything with our coaching staff in the NRL.”