Vodafone Fiji Bati captain, Kevin Naiqama, has faith in the new players for Sat­urday’s Pacific Test against the Papua New Guinea Kumuls.

The team had their main training run at St Mary’s ground in Sydney, Australia, yesterday.

Last night, they were to play a warm-up match against St Mary’s rugby league side.

Speaking to SUNsports, Naiqama said they want to win for the new players in the team.

“There’s a lot of new boys in the squad, we are trying to make them feel comfortable and welcome them with a win,” he said.

“We are just setting-up our week. First things first, we as senior play­ers want to make these young play­ers feel welcome. They are here to be part of the team and we want to celebrate their achievement.

From left: Vodafone Fiji Bati reps Pio Seci, Tui Kamikamica, Penioni Tagituimua and trainer Jone Wesele on their way to training at the St Mary’s ground in Sydney, Australia, on June 22, 2022. Photo: Simione Haravanua

“We’re grateful to have these boys on. We all remember our first test match and we want to make theirs more special, memorable and an enjoyable one as well.”

He added that they started their day in the gym, followed by a mobil­ity and field sessions.

“Not trying to over complicate things, we have got our session set-up throughout the week.

“This was our main day for both gym and field sessions, which is where we want to get most of the work done.”

Naiqama said the captain’s run is on Friday.

Papua New Guinea Kumuls captain Justin Olam at their hotel in Sydney on June 22, 2022. Photo: Simione Haravanua

“After that we’ll be ready for the test match on Saturday.

“The squad that we got here has been great. We love to have the oth­er boys but through injuries they aren’t able to make it.

“Ultimately, we want to use this match to build and prepare us for the world cup.

“We want to get the combinations and enjoy the win together.

“To all Fijian fans out there, please come out in numbers and support the boys this Saturday.”

Feedback: simione.haravanua@fijisun.com.fj