Mitchell Moses, who plays as a halfback for the Parramatta Eels and represents the NSW Blues in State of Origin, has declared his intention to play for Lebanon in the upcoming Rugby League World Cup.
Previously, Moses participated in international rugby league for Australia in 2024 during the Pacific Championships and was considered a strong candidate for the Ashes series last year before being sidelined by injuries later in the season.
This year, he has faced injuries again but notably excelled in Game 3 of the State of Origin series, helping the Blues secure victory in Brisbane for their second series win in three attempts requiring a decider.
Expressing his enthusiasm, Moses mentioned he looks forward to joining a squad that is likely to feature more NRL talent, including Manly Sea Eagles winger Jason Saab, who has recently been cleared to participate, as they prepare for the tournament set to kick off in mid-October in Australia.
"We didn't have too many first-graders in 2017, then we had a few more in the 2022 World Cup, and I guess in this next one we'll probably have a few more as well," he shared during the launch.
"It's growing and growing each year."
Moses last represented Lebanon in the 2022 World Cup hosted in England, accumulating 8 Test caps, scoring one try, and successfully kicking 23 goals.
Since the last World Cup, Lebanon has had limited opportunities to face top-tier teams, often fielding weakened sides in smaller matches, with their latest game occurring in October against Italy.
During the 2022 World Cup, Lebanon reached the quarter-finals, where they faced a challenging match against New Zealand after victories over Ireland and Jamaica, ultimately losing 48-4 to Australia.