Ban rules Api out of Fiji Tests

A big blow for the Vodafone Fiji Bati as they will be without the services of West Tigers hooker Apisai Koroisau for the upcoming test matches after receiving a three-match ban for a dangerous throw during their side’s loss to the Eels.

Koroisau's tackle on Clint Gutherson in the 52nd minute was assessed as a Grade 2, and as this was his second offence, it carried a three-game ban with an early guilty plea.

The Bati kick off their Pacific Bowl campaign against PNG on Saturday, October 19th in Fiji, before hosting the Cook Islands a week later.

The winner of the Pacific Bowl plays the third-placed team in the Pacific Cup at CommBank Stadium on Sunday, November 10th, in a promotion-relegation match for next year's tournament.

Meanwhile, Bulldogs forward Viliame Kikau has been fined $3,000 for dangerous contact for his hit on Cowboys halfback Jake Clifford in the 13th minute of Saturday's game at Accor Stadium.

Had Kikau fought the charge and been found guilty at the panel, he would have been banned for two games.

This week is the first preliminary final, where the Panthers will face the Roosters at 9.50pm Friday, followed by the Storm taking on the Sharks at 6.05pm Saturday, the Cowboys will meet the Knights at 9.50pm Saturday, and the Bulldogs will face the Sea Eagles at 6.05pm Sunday.