Walters will speak to Samoa trio about rep futures
Joel Gould |
The rise of Samoa as international rugby league powerhouses poses a dilemma for Australia, but new coach Kevin Walters is up for the challenge.
Walters will helm the Kangaroos on a three-Test Ashes tour at the end of this season, but it is doubtful star players Payne Haas, Tino Fa’asuamaleaui and Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow will be on the plane with him.
The trio are leaning towards representing Samoa in the post-season Pacific Championships, which will also have implications for next year’s World Cup in Australia and Papua New Guinea.
The reality of the modern game is that many players have heritages from multiple nations, and the desire to honour their families and represent countries and cultures that are dear to their hearts is strong.
That fact has made the international game stronger, as 2022 World Cup finalists Samoa, along with Tonga, have demonstrated.
Walters wants to have the best players available for Australia, which is understandable, but also is supportive of the Samoan trio.
Australia forward Pat Carrigan, a big supporter of players following their heart on international eligibility, said on Tuesday he expected Walters to “get in the ear” of Brisbane teammate Haas to play for the Kangaroos.
Walters was asked on Wednesday if he would.
“In time I will, but that’s probably not a conversation for today,” he said.
“I just want to explain to those players that are contemplating, I totally understand their situation, but let’s get the Kangaroos opportunity in front of them and see where they’re at with that. We move forward from there.”
Tabuai-Fidow, who represented Samoa in one World Cup match in 2022 before getting injured, won the 2024 Pacific Cup with Australia.
Fa’asuamaleaui took out the 2022 World Cup with the Kangaroos.
Gold Coast captain Fa’asuamaleaui did play a Test for Samoa in 2019, but has represented Australia in his past seven internationals. Broncos prop Haas has played all his four Tests for Australia.
“One thing about the Australian rugby league team is that there’s great talent. We know that,” Walters said.
“So if some players elect to play for Pasifika nations or whatever nation, we’ve got plenty of depth here in Australia. Obviously we want the best players available.
“It’s been a terrific State of Origin series with great talent on show from both states, so I’m sure we’ll get a very strong 22 to take on the English in October and November.”
Walters was quizzed on whether he was up for the challenge of dealing with the selection issues ahead.
“Yes, certainly … myself and who else selects the team,” he replied.
“That’s our job, to get the best 22 players available after the grand final and pick those guys and head over to England and get the job done for Australia.”
AAP
