NZThe Fiji National Rugby League (FNRL) is assisting three Wests Tigers players, Sione, Samuela, and Latu Fainu, in proving their Fijian heritage to qualify for the Fiji national team, the Bati, ahead of the 2026 Rugby League World Cup. The International Rugby League (IRL) requires documented evidence of Fijian ancestry, which the players have yet to provide. While they are eligible to represent Tonga and New Zealand, they wish to honor their grandmother’s heritage by playing for Fiji. The IRL has granted them additional time to submit credible documentation. New Fiji Bati coach Mick Potter and the FNRL are actively working to secure IRL approval for the players, who were initially included in the Fiji Bati squad. The World Cup will be co-hosted by Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea, starting on 15 October.
Bias read (Center): The article focuses on a sports-related issue involving rugby league eligibility and does not involve political topics such as government policies, elections, or social issues. Therefore, it is considered apolitical and leans toward the center.
