Barnstorming North Queensland Cowboys forward Jason Taumalolo is reportedly just one out of a host of New Zealand internationals who will play for Tonga in the Rugby League World Cup.
Taumalolo delivered a body blow to the Kiwis’ hopes when confirming on Wednesday he will play for Tonga in the tournament hosted by Australia and New Zealand, starting later in the month.
Expected to join Taumalolo in the Tongan team are Manu Vatuvei (Salford), David Fusitu’a (Warriors) and Manu Ma’u (Eels), who have all represented Mate Ma’a in the last two years as allowed under international rules.
According to a News Limited report the trio made themselves unavailable for New Zealand in a “secret pact”, highlighting their reported unhappiness that Jesse Bromwich and Kevin Proctor were barred from selection by Kiwis coach David Kidwell.
The punishment followed Bromwich and Proctor’s involvement in a drugs scandal after May’s 30-12 Anzac Day Test loss in Canberra.
Wests Tigers playmaker Tuimoala Lolohea, Warriors centre Solomone Kata and Sydney Roosters forward Sio Siua Taukeiaho have already confirmed their availability for Tonga, despite previously splitting their allegiance.
They will be joined by Titans back Konrad Hurrell, who has never represented the Kiwis.
Both the New Zealand and Tongan squads are set to be named later on Thursday.
They clash in the final round of RLWC pool play in Hamilton on November 11.
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