The Fiji National Rugby League (FNRL) has welcomed the inclusion of three Fiji Bati reps in the State of Origin game one next Wednesday.

FNRL acting chief executive Don Natabe said the inclusion of Apisai Koroisau, Tariq Sims and Daniel Saifiti in the New South Wales (NSW) Blues team will allow fans to also look forward to Fijian flavour being represented in the pinnacle of the sport in Australia.

“We are extremely proud of having Fijian heritage players in a representative competition that has been the centre-piece rugby league for decades,” he said.

The trio adds a colourful of Fijians in the colossal tribal rivalry that Origin brings between the two states of NSW and Queensland.

A growing number of former Bati players have graced the Origin arena such as Lote Tuqiri, Jarryd Hayne, Akuila Uate, and legend Petero Civoniceva and have left their mark on the field and peoples minds.

Natabe added that with the trio representing Fiji, it gives Fijian Origin fans another reason to support the competition

“Many Fijians look forward to the origin games and it’s terrific to see Fiji being represented at the Origin level.”

He highlighted the high level of professionalism and valour the trio bring to the Bati side and wished them well in the series.

“The trio has been an amazing squad member for our past two world cups together and international test matches and we congratulate them for being selected to the Origin series this year,” Natabe added.

The Blues is coached by Brad Fitler and Queensland Maroons is coached by Paul Green.

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