Fiji Bati captain Tui Kamikamica retires

The Fiji Bati's prospects for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup have been significantly impacted by the sudden retirement of their captain, Tui Kamikamica. The 32-year-old prop announced his immediate retirement on Thursday, citing medical reasons. This decision comes after Kamikamica suffered a stroke on March 30, just two days after playing for his club, the Melbourne Storm.

“

His health and life is far more important than anything else.

Kamikamica's health took a critical turn, necessitating emergency surgery to remove a blood clot from his brain. He later underwent another procedure to repair a small hole in his heart. Fiji National Rugby League (FNRL) chairman Rajesh Singh expressed shock but fully supported Kamikamica's decision, stating, "His health and life is far more important than anything else." Singh added that while the team is saddened by his absence from the World Cup, their primary concern is his recovery, and they are "asking for prayers that he will be able to recover fully."

“

We are saddened he can not play for us at the world cup but we support his call and think of him as well.

Kamikamica, who captained Fiji since 2023 and earned 23 Test caps, had been included in the initial 40-member squad with hopes he might recover in time for the tournament. His club, Melbourne Storm, where he was a mainstay since his 2017 NRL debut, lauded his contributions. The club noted his induction as a Life Member and highlighted his role in their 2017 and 2020 NRL Premiership-winning seasons. Kamikamica played 15 NRL Finals games, including two Grand Finals.

“

We wish him all the best and continue to ask for prayers that he will be able to recover fully.

Reflecting on his career, Kamikamica expressed deep gratitude to the Storm for the opportunity to play at the highest level. "I'm incredibly proud of everything I've been able to achieve in the game, representing Storm and captaining my country," he said. He described his decade with the Melbourne club as a "huge part" of his life, thanking teammates, coaches, staff, and his family for their unwavering support throughout his rugby league journey.

“

I'm incredibly proud of everything I've been able to achieve in the game, representing Storm and captaining my country.