Bati dealt triple injury blow in World Cup exit

[Source: Vodafone Fiji/Facebook]

The Vodafone Fiji Bati’s Rugby League World Cup campaign ended on a disappointing note, with the side dealt a series of injury setbacks during their clash against New Zealand.

The biggest blow came just eight minutes into the match when captain Api Koroisau was forced from the field following an accidental head clash with New Zealand prop Joseph Tapine.

Koroisau was taken for a Head Injury Assessment before being transported to hospital for X-rays, with fears he may have suffered a broken jaw.

Fiji’s injury troubles continued just before half-time when winger Semi Valemei suffered a Category 1 head knock, ruling him out for the remainder of the contest.

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The Bati were dealt another setback midway through the second half when Ronald Philitoga was taken high by New Zealand winger Ronaldo Mulitalo.

Mulitalo was shown a red card for the dangerous tackle, while Philitoga was also ruled out after being assessed with a Category 1 head knock.

The three injury setbacks added to a difficult outing for the Bati, who were unable to overcome the Kiwis as their 2026 Rugby League World Cup campaign came to an end.