Kangaroos coach Walters faces exodus of stars to Pacific nations
That was the declaration of Kangaroos forward Pat Carrigan, who threw his support behind a slew of State of Origin stars contemplating defection to Samoa.
New Australia coach Kevin Walters faces a battle to field his strongest possible side in the lead-up to this year's rugby league Ashes series in England.
Payne Haas, Tino Fa'asuamaleaui and Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow are considering shifting their allegiances to Samoa – similar to how Jason Taumalolo and Andrew Fifita famously turned Tonga into an international force.
The trio's decision comes at a pivotal time for rugby league, when growing the international game is paramount.
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Only three teams – Australia, New Zealand and Great Britain – have lifted the trophy at 16 previous Rugby League World Cups.
Samoa and Tonga have made gallant strides, with the former reaching the last tournament's final with State of Origin stars Stephen Crichton, Brian To'o, Jarome Luai and Josh Papalii lining up.
Maroons regulars Murray Taulagi and Jeremiah Nanai have also been a part of the Samoa cause.
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AFL 2025: David King analyses North Melbourne 101-point loss to Geelong Cats, failed draft gamble, Alastair Clarkson press conference
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