Navale Eyes Ultimate Bati Statement Against the Kiwis

Caleb Navale has no fear as Fiji prepare for the biggest game of their Rugby League World Cup, a semi-final berth on the line against New Zealand on Saturday. The 23-year-old lock has emerged as a leader of the Bati pack, leading his side for metres and tackle count while averaging more than 70 minutes a game across the opening two matches. His presence alone is a story of defiance: in February he suffered a ruptured anterior cruciate ligament, yet worked overtime to return to the NRL in just over six months so he could prove himself worthy of World Cup selection. Coming much closer to Australia than many expected in Brisbane last Sunday has only added to Fiji's confidence, and Navale draws inspiration from veteran forward Daniel Saifiti, whose aggressive, simple approach he tries to follow. Walking out in front of a packed stadium was, he said, a pinch-me moment after a year that began with serious injury and doubt. Now, with a semi-final place at stake against the Kiwis, Fiji's so-called bogey team, Navale and his teammates have a chance to turn a remarkable personal comeback into a piece of national history.