He is one of the local based players in the team but Nemia Kenatale has a lot to prove for the Flying Fijians in the Rugby World Cup.

Kenatale is one of the two halfback that got the nod from the selectors to be in the team with Vitori Buatava.

For the 25 year old the road to selection had not been a smooth sailing as other capable players like Emosi Vucago and Nikola Matawalu also eyed the number 9 jumper.

Originally from Tailevu, Kenatale was born in Tavua when his father worked for the Gold Mining company in Vatukoula and it was where he started playing rugby in an early age from primary school level.

He played for his home province in Tailevu in 2006 before joining the Knights franchise in 2007 and it was also during this time that he got selected to the Fiji Barbarians in the Pacific Rugby Cup.

In 2008, Kenatale debut against Tonga in the PNC and since then has been part of the Fiji 15's team to overseas tours and also in the Test at home.

Now a policeman by profession, Kenatale knows that his position requires players who can push rugby laws to the limit to give his team quality possession on the field.
 
Fiji's opening pool game is against Namibia this Saturday at 3.30pm and again you can catch the live commentary on our sister station Viti FM with the new voice of rugby, Malakai Veisamasama and 2007 World Cup coach, Ilivasi Tabua.

Story by: Dreu Vukailagi