LeagueNews.co | Robbie Hamilton
In a report by weststigers.com.au, it has been revealed that the upcoming clash between the Wests Tigers and the New Zealand Warriors in Hamilton is expected to have a strong home crowd advantage for the visitors.
Despite being the designated home side, the Waikato crowd is predicted to largely favor the Warriors.
This is particularly significant for seven Wests Tigers players who were born in New Zealand, as they will have the unique opportunity to play in front of their family and friends on their home soil.
The Wests Tigers' backline is notably influenced by Kiwi talent, with Jahream Bula, Starford To'a, Asu Kepaoa, and Junior Tupou all hailing from Auckland.
Bula made the move to Australia at the age of thirteen for schooling, while To'a completed his education in New Zealand before joining the Newcastle Knights in 2018.
Kepaoa and Tupou initially started their sporting journeys in rugby union but made the switch to Rugby League to pursue their careers.
Shifting focus to the forward pack, Isaiah Papali'i is no stranger to the Warriors faithful, as he spent four seasons at the club after making his NRL debut in 2017.