Kikau in doubt for crucial NRL game due to visa issues

Fiji Bati forward Viliame Kikau is in doubt for Penrith Panther's crucial NRL clash against the Warriors because of visa issues.

The Panthers have been working with immigration officials in a bid to claim Australian residency status for the Nausori‑born forward, otherwise he risks being locked out of the country.

Panthers General Manager Phil Gould told News Corp Australia that Kikau can leave the country on his Fijian passport but wouldn't be able to return to Australia,"

The Panthers leave for Auckland tomorrow.

Viliame Kikau is no stranger to visa issues ‑ he was close to missing Fiji's Rugby League World Cup semi‑final defeat to Australia last year after being stuck in New Zealand due to an expired visa.

The 23‑year‑old, who was selected in the World Cup tournament team, rejoined the squad in Brisbane two days later after being issued with a temporary visa.

[Source: AAP]