FNRL board to decide on Bati coach’s future

The Fiji National Rugby League (FNRL) will soon make an official announcement on the future of the Fiji Bati head coach Wise Kativerata. 

This was confirmed to SUNsports yesterday by FNRL board chairman Akuila Masi who indicated that they are still reviewing the Fiji Bati coaching structure ahead of next year’s Rugby League World Cup (RLWC) in Australia. 

He highlighted that as soon as the FNRL board concludes its assessment—based on performance, technical requirements, and their long-term development strategy they will make the announcement. 

Speaking to SUNsports, Masi said at this stage, the board has not finalised a decision on the head coach’s position for the RLWC 2026. 

“The review process must be completed in line with proper governance and HR (human resources) procedures according to the law, which is why no confirmation has been issued yet,” he said. 

Concerns of the coaching structure was voiced by former Fiji players and club coaches after the Bati was outclassed 50-18 by the PNG (Papua New Guinea) Kumuls during the Pacific Bowl Championships on November 1. The Bati under Kativerata has not beaten the Kumuls for the past three years. 

“The review will take a bit of time but the board will have the final say,” he added. 

Kativerata stepped into the coaching role just days before the RLWC 2022 started after then head coach Joe Rabele was sick and had to be hospitalised. The young Bati side fought gallantly but lost to New Zealand 18-24 in the quarterfinal. 

The Bati has played in the RLWC semi-finals in 2008 (under coach Rabele), 2013 (under coach Rick Stone and 2018 (under coach Mick Potter) where they beat New Zealand 4-2 in the quarterfinals. 

Masi said the FNRL board has taken these concerns seriously. 

“Our review is assessing all contributing factors—including coaching, systems, preparation time, and player availability. While individual players perform strongly at club level, international fixtures require a different level of cohesion, preparation, and game planning, and those are areas we are now working to strengthen,” Masi said. 

“Regarding the coaching and support staff, the board will evaluate all roles to determine whether adjustments or additional personnel are required to support a stronger high-performance programme for the RLWC. 

“This process includes input from key partners and technical advisers to ensure we build the right environment for success. 

“We have our targets for the RLWC 2026 so we will have to build up well. 

“These areas are important because it contributes to players’ preparation for the RLWC.” 

The RLWC will be from October 15-November 15, next year. The Bati is in Pool A where they face defending champions Australia, New Zealand and Cook Islands. 

Masi revealed the World Cup preparation plan is being developed, including training camps, performance monitoring and engagement with players and clubs. 

Part of this plan, he said, includes the identification of an extended squad. 

“We anticipate that both overseas-based and local players will be considered, as we remain committed to ensuring that domestic talent continues to have a genuine pathway into the Fiji Bati,” he said. 

“We appreciate the public’s passion for the Fiji Bati and assure you that the board is taking the necessary steps to ensure we field a competitive and well-prepared team for the Rugby League World Cup.”