"I want to play for my family and the people of Fiji".
These were the words of Overseas Fijian rugby league team fullback Henry Raiwalui who wants a spot in the Vodafone Fiji Bati side to the Rugby League World Cup.
The Dravualu, Kadavu man has managed to achieve his aim of being injury free.
Raiwalui attended Suva Methodist Primary School from class one to class four before moving to Australia with his family and has been playing at fullback and five eight for the Wentworthville Club in the New South Wales Cup competition in Sydney.
The 23 year old said he was motivated by Jarryd Hayne and Akuila Uate who were outstanding players during the 2008 Rugby League World Cup.
The Overseas Fijian side will be captained by 2008 Fiji Bati World Cup scrum half Aaron Groom and will be accompanied by senior players including five-eighth Alipate Tani and Ilisoni Vono.
Some of the players who will be part of the Vodafone Fiji Bati include Marika Koroibete, Petero Civoniceva, Akuila Uate, Jason Bukuya, Semi Radradra, Daryl Millard, Wes Naiqama, Kevin Naiqama, Tariq Sims and Ashton Sims.
Jarred Hayne will play for Fiji if he is not selected in the Australian team.
The Battle of the Bati kicks off at 7pm this Thursday at the ANZ Stadium.
Story by: Rusiate Baleilevuka
