Kalyn Ponga is one win from Rugby League World Cup glory after New Zealand beat Tonga 34-10 in Saturday's semi-final.
He returned three weeks after breaking his left arm in the tournament-opening loss to Australia, with a plate and 11 screws inserted.
He set up three tries and earned man-of-the-match honours, a month after Newcastle's unlikely NRL grand-final run.
Born in Western Australia and raised in Mt Isa, Ponga's Maori heritage has fuelled questions over his allegiance despite 13 appearances for Queensland.
He had also represented the Maori All Stars and Australia's short-lived nines side.
Before the 2024 Pacific Championships, he made himself unavailable for Australia; eligibility changes early this year forced his choice.
"I've bided my time in wanting to play for New Zealand and felt like this was the right decision for me," Ponga said.
New Zealand face Australia in Brisbane on Sunday night, seeking their first World Cup title since 2008.