Fijian rugby league star Jarryd Hayne believes his side has what it takes to create another upset at the Rugby League World Cup, as Fiji Bati prepare to take on the New Zealand Kiwis in their quarter-final in Wellington on Saturday.
The Fijian team face the Kiwis on Saturday in Wellington in the RLWC quarter finals. (Source: Other)
Hayne, 29, said his side have the belief that they can beat New Zealand after they were handed a 28-22 loss to Tonga last Saturday in Hamilton.
The Fijian half praised Tonga and their approach and progress so far at this year's RLWC.
"Definitely I think the way that Tonga played and the passion in their fans I think they've had an unbelievable campaign," said Hayne.
"From the get go from when they were in Tonga, the way they were kind of were accepted from a celebration point of view - they've gathered that momentum and been able to use it in their favour.
"It's something that we definitely need to put in our way knowing how much the islands look up to us and look to us to really do the impossible."
Hayne played for the Kangaroos in the last World Cup in 2013 and in 2008 played for Fiji Bati.
"I think the island way is laid back and kicked back," said Hayne.
"You definitely have a lot more fun."
The Fijian team face the Kiwis on Saturday in Wellington in the RLWC quarter finals. (Source: Other)
Fiji were unbeaten in their round robin matches in this year's World Cup and play their first match of the tournament in New Zealand on Saturday.
"I think for us to make it to two semi-finals in the last two World Cups, there is definitely that aspect of some pressure this year," he said.
"But I think we don't go away from what the islands are about and that's to enjoy each other's company, play hard for each other, which I think we have been doing.
"It's going to be a huge Test when we come up against the Kiwis on Saturday."
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