LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
In a brutal twist for Nicho Hynes, he has been overlooked for selection in Mal Meninga's Kangaroos side for the Pacific Championship final against New Zealand, despite calls from Michael Ennis that he should be retained.
Hynes made his debut for the Kangaroos last weekend, playing 25 minutes off the bench in their 36-18 win over the Kiwis.
Meninga decided to rest some of his starting forwards, creating an opportunity for Hynes on the bench.
He showcased his versatility and all-field value, starting in the middle as a roving utility and then moving into the halves when Cameron Munster came off.
There was even a possibility that Hynes could play fullback after James Tedesco suffered a slight injury.
However, despite his impressive performance, Hynes did not make the final 17-man squad.
Payne Haas, Tino Fa'asuamaleaui, and Liam Martin returned to the side, pushing Reuben Cotter to the bench and leaving no room for Hynes.
Ennis expressed his disappointment, stating that he believed Hynes had done enough to warrant selection over Cotter, praising his versatility and ability to play in different positions on the field.