Vodafone Fiji Bati outside back Semi Valemei wants to put on his best performance against Papua New Guinea Kumuls in their Pacific Bowls Championship opener at the HFC Bank Stadium, Suva, next Saturday.

The 25-year-old who plays for NRL (National Rugby League) club North Queensland Cowboys was part of the group of Bati players that arrived into the country on Tuesday night.

“I’m looking forward to it,” he said.

“I haven’t been home since 2022 and it’s been a long time.”

Valemei said the Bati squad is in good hands with experienced players like Tui Kamikamica, Viliame Kikau, Michael Jennings and Kevin Naiqama leading the charge.

“The players that played in the grand-final on the weekend are coming in later. I’m looking forward of gaining more experience from the older players.”

Valemei said he is going to do whatever he can to help the Bati win against PNG and the Cook Islands.

“I did not have a great season due to injuries and it kind of slowed me down,” he added.

Valemei was first identified while playing rugby for Seaqaqa Central College. He hails from Navidamu Village.

Later yesterday, he was among the Bati players conducting coaching clinic at Bethel Primary School in Labasa. Today, they join the march to mark the Fiji Day celebrations.

“I’m looking forward to be with my family in the next couple of days in Labasa,” he added.

Bati head coach Wise Kativerata said the players would also be travelling to Savusavu from Labasa for the celebration.

“We’ll return on Saturday morning and go straight to camp. It’s important for the Fiji Bati players to be in the North because we’re trying to grow the game there. There’s a lot of talent. Semi is from there.”

Accompanying the team to Vanua Levu are assistant coaches of John Sutton from St George Illawarra

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