LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy

International switch looms for Haas, Tino, and Hammer

Just two weeks into his role as coach of the Australian Kangaroos, Kevin Walters is already grappling with the significant challenge of keeping three key players on his team.

There are reports that Samoa is on the verge of attracting Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, and Payne Haas away from the Kangaroos, which could leave Walters without these star athletes ahead of the upcoming Ashes series.

In an interview with The Daily Telegraph, Walters shared his approach regarding the trio. "I have already had some conversations and picked up the phone," he stated. "There will be some meetings in the next few weeks with those guys."

He acknowledged that his intention is not to pressure anyone into representing Australia but rather to gain insight into their decision-making regarding potential defections. "I won't be trying to convince them to play for the Kangaroos," Walters explained. "I will sit down with those guys and outline my plan for the Kangaroos and where we are going to take the jersey."