Australia opens its Rugby League World Cup campaign against New Zealand in Sydney on October 15, with coach Kevin Walters facing key selection decisions.
Roosters centre Robert Toia has chosen Tonga for the tournament, despite being named in both nations' preliminary squads. The 22-year-old made the call after his club's 19-18 grand final win over Newcastle on Sunday.
Toia, named Dally M Centre of the Year, explained his choice to AAP: "I just thought of missing out on being a part of a special team and the team has what it takes to win the World Cup,"
"I'd be stupid to not want to be a part of it."
He said he still hoped to represent Australia in another year: "I back myself to be in contention to play for Australia in any other year. I'd still love to achieve that Australian dream but I feel like I've still got so much footy to play and I still back myself to put myself in contention in any other year."
Toia's decision leaves a centre spot open in Australia's 23-man squad. Bradman Best is expected to take one position, while Kotoni Staggs, Latrell Mitchell and Jack Bostock are among the candidates for the other; Tom Trbojevic is likely to contend for a wing role.
James Tedesco strengthened his case for fullback by winning the Clive Churchill Medal, while incumbent Reece Walsh is also selected. Penrith's Dylan Edwards is unavailable through injury.
With Nathan Cleary sidelined by a leg break, Walters said Mitchell Moses, Tom Dearden and Sam Walker would contest the halfback position. Walker boosted his prospects by steering the Roosters to victory after returning from ankle surgery.