Potter keeps things simple
Potter also welcomed the appointment of assistant coaches Wes Naiqama, Kevin Naiqama and Jarryd Hayne, saying their experience would strengthen the national side.
Friday 31 July 2026 | 10:00
From left: Fiji National Rugby League (FNRL) board director Sitiveni Vuniyayawa, Culden Kamea, Fiji Bati head coach Mick Potter, Vodafone Fiji sponsorship specialist Mataika Koyamainavure, board chairman Rajesh Singh, FSSRL rep Naisa Cama Toko and Pherrus Financial Services rep Kelepi Korodrau at the FNRL headquarters, Domain, Suva on July 30, 2026.
Photo: Tevita Wesele
Fiji Bati head coach Mick Potter believes unity and strong preparations would boost their chances of upsetting either Australia or New Zealand during the pool games of this this year’s Rugby League World Cup (RLWC).
This is nothing new to Potter as he has guided the Bati to upset New Zealand 4-2 during the quarterfinal of the 2017 RLWC in Wellington.
“I’ve spoken to most of the players and we’re working through our plans,” Potter told SUNsports yesterday.
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“At the moment the players are committed to their clubs, so we’ll bring the squad together once their competition finish and prepare them for the World Cup.”
Potter said his message to the players would be simple.
“I want them to give 100 per cent and do their best,” he added.
Potter also welcomed the appointment of assistant coaches Wes Naiqama, Kevin Naiqama and Jarryd Hayne, saying their experience would strengthen the national side.
“Wes has spent a long time in the NRL and Jarryd has outstanding rugby league knowledge. Kevin will bring leadership, cultural understanding and physicality to training. Together they give us a good balance.”
Potter said he told the players awaiting eligibility clearance that it would become available before the tournament.
“There are three players we’re still waiting on. If they get the green light, they’ll be great additions to the squad.”
He added that building strong connections within the team would be a major focus.
“I want the players to stay close, work together and develop the way they want to play within our game plan. We have talented players and an experienced coaching staff, so I’m confident we’ll put together a strategy capable of challenging the tier-one nations.”
Fiji has been drawn alongside Australia, New Zealand and the Cook Islands in Pool B.
Potter said he was eager to return to the Bati environment and that the Bati would need to upset at least one of the two rugby league heavyweights to reach the knockout stage.
"We know it's possible because Fiji has done it before. The players have to believe they can do it, and we'll do everything we can to make that happen," he added.
