LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
In recent months, the topic of international eligibility has garnered significant attention due to several high-profile players with dual nationality. Notably, AJ Brimson and Billy Smith have declared their commitment to England, while Payne Haas has opted to represent Samoa instead of Australia for the upcoming 2025 Pacific Championships.
As Australia and Samoa await decisions from players like Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Tino Fa'asuamaleaui regarding their national representation, Valentine Holmes has disclosed that he too contemplated switching allegiances prior to his season-ending shoulder injury.
A member of Australia's World Cup squads in both 2017 and 2021, Holmes has expressed his interest in representing the Cook Islands later this year to honor his mother's heritage. He stated, "I was considering playing this year if this [shoulder injury] didn't happen. The Pacific nations," during an appearance on The Unscripted Show.
He reflected on the decision made by David and Andrew Fifita a few years back, noting, "You know, David and Andrew Fifita, a few years ago, 2017 or 2018, how they decided they were going to play for Tonga and give back to the heritage for their family."