LeagueNews.co | Cooper McEnroe
Payne Haas, a standout player for the Brisbane Broncos and New South Wales Blues, has announced his decision to represent Samoa in this year's Pacific Championships.
This choice means he will forgo the Ashes tour to England with the Australian Kangaroos, who are also expected to lose players Tino Fa'asuamaleaui and Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow from their roster.
According to current international rugby league regulations, athletes eligible for both Tier 1 and Tier 2 teams can declare their national allegiance annually. As a result, Haas has the option to return to play for the Kangaroos during the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, which will occur in Australia and Papua New Guinea.
In the Pacific Championships, Samoa, stepping in for Australia after their own tour to England last year, will compete against New Zealand and Tonga in their end-of-year internationals. They are focusing on building momentum for the upcoming World Cup, especially after their impressive run to the finals in the previous tournament held in England in 2021.
In confirming Haas's participation, Samoan coach Ben Gardiner praised him as a "proven performer."
"We're excited to welcome Payne into the Toa Samoa family," Gardiner added.