LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
The Kangaroos are facing a tumultuous time as they gear up for their Pacific Championships opener against Tonga, with young gun Xavier Coates at the center of an ugly drama.
Coates, a talented winger, has been subjected to online abuse after making the tough decision to switch his international allegiance from Papua New Guinea to Australia.
Despite hopes from Papua New Guinea coach Jason Demetriou that Coates would join their squad, the speedster has been called up to represent the Kangaroos under the guidance of Mal Meninga.
As he prepares to make his debut for Australia, Coates has faced backlash from PNG fans who have lashed out at him online.
In a show of solidarity, Coates' Kangaroos teammates have come to his defense.
Star player Harry Grant expressed his support for Coates, noting that he is a "lovely bloke" and hoping that Papua New Guinean fans can understand and appreciate his decision.
Grant emphasized the importance of support for Coates as he embarks on this new chapter representing Australia, acknowledging the deep love and passion PNG fans have for rugby league.
He encouraged fans to stand by Coates as he proudly represents both his mother's heritage and his father's legacy on the international stage.