Updated: 6:28am – The Vodafone Fiji Bati could meet Tonga in the quarter-final of the Rugby League World Cup if they top pool D.
As semi‑finalists in the past two tournaments, Fiji could achieve a three‑peat.
If they win their game against Wales on Sunday and beat Italy next weekend in Canberra, they will then face far tougher competition for a semi‑final spot where their quarter‑final trip will be to Christchurch to face a daunting Tonga side.
Bati playmaker Jarryd Hayne says there is a massive difference in Fiji since the 2008 World Cup.
Hayne adds they are looking to go beyond knowing the capabilities of first-grade players they have in the team.
Although Fiji, under coach Mick Potter is without the injured Korbin Sims and now Kane Evans, they are missing fewer star players than many other competing nations.
Hayne is proud to be controlling the games as a playmaker and believes the players they have out wide will make his job easier.
The Fiji Bati will take on Wales at 9.30pm Sunday in Townsville.
On Friday, Australia will face France at 9pm.
On Saturday, New Zealand will face Scotland at 4pm, Samoa will play Tonga at 6.30pm while England plays Lebanon at 9pm.
In other matches on Sunday, PNG will take on Ireland at 7pm while Italy will also face USA at 7pm.
-Fiji Village
