PNG Kumuls, Fiji Bati Set for Pacific Championships Showdown
The stage is set for a thrilling Pacific rivalry as the PNG Kumuls prepare to take on the Fiji Bati in Round 3 of the 2025 Pacific Championships. Both teams have named powerful squads, with Papua New Guinea favouring consistency in their line-up while Fiji has opted for a refreshed roster featuring a blend of youth and experience. The much-anticipated clash promises high intensity, physicality, and national pride on display.
Papua New Guinea head into the match with confidence after solid performances in their earlier fixtures. The Kumuls’ coaching staff have retained most of their previous side, signalling trust in the team’s growing chemistry. Dudley Dotoi and Valentine Richard have been added to the line-up, bolstering PNG’s attacking depth and providing more strike options on the edges. Captain Rhyse Martin continues to lead the pack with his trademark work ethic and goal-kicking accuracy.
Playmakers Lachlan Lam and Edwin Ipape will again be central to the Kumuls’ game plan, controlling the tempo and linking up with the forward pack led by Jack de Belin and Nixon Putt. The backline, featuring Nene Macdonald and Alex Johnston, will look to capitalise on quick plays and open-field opportunities. With a strong balance of experience from the NRL and emerging local stars, the Kumuls are determined to maintain momentum in front of their passionate supporters.
The Fiji Bati, meanwhile, have introduced a few key inclusions as they aim to bounce back from earlier setbacks in the competition. Coach Wise Kativerata has brought in Ben Nakubuwai, Gabriel Tunimakubu, Jope Rauqe and Ronald Philitoga, all expected to bring energy and fresh combinations to the side. Captain Tui Kamikamica will once again lead from the front, supported by a powerful forward pack and a dynamic backline.
The Bati’s strength lies in their athleticism and attacking flair, with fullback Jahream Bula and winger Sunia Turuva expected to be major threats out wide. The halves pairing of Brandon Wakeham and Kurt Donoghoe will guide Fiji’s attacking structure, combining sharp kicking with creative ball movement. With Fiji’s fresh inclusions, the Bati will look to disrupt PNG’s rhythm and use their expansive style to break through the defensive line.
Both nations share a rich history of fierce battles, and this encounter is shaping up to be another classic Pacific showdown. PNG’s structured play and discipline will be tested by Fiji’s unpredictability and flair. The forward exchanges are expected to be brutal, while the backline matchups promise speed and excitement. Fans across the region are eagerly anticipating what could be one of the highlights of this year’s championship.
With the tournament heating up, both the Kumuls and the Bati are eyeing victory not just for points, but for pride and national honour. The outcome will likely hinge on who dominates the ruck and capitalises on key moments. As kickoff approaches, rugby league fans from Port Moresby to Suva are ready to witness two proud Pacific nations clash in a contest that celebrates strength, skill, and spirit.
PNG Kumuls Team List
- Morea Morea
- Dudley Dotoi
- Zac Laybutt
- Nene Macdonald
- Alex Johnston
- Gairo Voro
- Lachlan Lam
- Epel Kapinias
- Edwin Ipape
- Valentine Richard
- Rhyse Martin (c)
- Nixon Putt
- Jack de Belin
- Finley Glare
- Robert Mathias
- Cooper Bai
- Sylvester Namo
- Liam Horne
- Robert Derby
- Jacob Alick-Wiencke
- Jahream Bula
- Sunia Turuva
- Jope Rauqe
- Semi Valemei
- Ronald Philitoga
- Kurt Donoghoe
- Brandon Wakeham
- Tui Kamikamica (c)
- Penioni Tagituimua
- Michael Waqa
- Taane Milne
- Kitione Kautoga
- Caleb Navale
- Terrell Kalo Kalo
- Solomone Saukuru
- Ben Nakubuwai
- Kylan Mafoa
- Akuila Qoro
- Keresi Maya
- Gabriel Tunimakubu
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