Talks are underway to include the Fiji National Rugby League in Australia’s National Rugby League competition; the pinnacle of rugby league competition in the world.

Following Fiji’s success story at the Rugby League World Cup in Australia, leading world sports management agency AMI, an Australian-based franchise has offered a corporate consortium to the FNRL which includes playing in the NRL competition.

AMIi, established in 1996, is an elite sports and entertainment agency providing management, marketing and consultancy with some of the world’s renowned sports personalities like Wendell Sailor and Willie Mason, a big, fast, agile, skilful and tough rugby league player playing for the Sydney City Roosters NRL team.

AMI also sponsors competitions like Super-14 and other sports around the globe.

FNRL patron Rajesh Singh said AMI called minutes before the historic Fiji Bati victory march through Suva City on Friday offering the lifeline which could end all their financial demeanors.

“We need about $8m to play in the NRL but if Government will help us start then what could stop us from becoming the world champion," he said

"It’s still early stages, but it is serious business where the consortium will generate millions of dollars to Fiji."

"The Vodafone Fiji Bati will play 12 home games meaning top NRL players will come to Fiji, millions of dollars of television revenue where our games will be beamed around the world, and a chance to promote our players,” the former Fiji sports minister added.

NRL annual calendar spans 23 matches per year with teams around Australia and the New Zealand Warriors.

“Imagine the benefits this consortium will have for Fiji. There will be millions of dollars pouring into our economy and benefits to the tourism industry.”

He said the consortium could sign a five-year agreement if it gets off the ground.

Meanwhile, Fiji Bati players (26) each received $8000 each after sharing the $300,000 prize from the RLWC with officials pocketing $4000 each.

The Fiji Interim Government donated $1000 to each player in their victory salute on Friday.

“We thank Prime Minister Bainimarama for his help and his advise and encouraging words when the team was in Australia during the World Cup. It helped them perform well,” Singh added.
Fijilive

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