Melbourne star Felise Kaufusi on why he chose to represent Australia over Tonga
BORN in Auckland to Tongan parents but raised in Australia, Felise Kaufusi is eligible to play for either of the three nations. But his heart has always belonged to the green and gold.
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FELISE Kaufusi played for Tonga as recently as last year but the Kangaroos back-rower said his heart always belonged to the green and gold.
Kaufusi is bracing for a hostile reception when he comes head to head with Tonga for the first time since playing three Tests for the country.
“I don’t think they’ll like me to be honest,” Kaufusi said. “I’ve seen the atmosphere from the World Cup and I’m really looking forward to it.
“It will be weird and a bit daunting facing the Sipi Tau, but I’ll take it in my stride and put the emotions aside and do my best on the day.”
Born in Auckland to Tongan parents but raised in Australia, Kaufusi is eligible to play for either of the three nations. While he said the Kiwis had never come knocking he had always wanted to follow in his brother Antonio’s footsteps and represent Australia.
“I have to be careful, but I think I’m more drawn to Australia,” Kaufusi said. “Growing up in Queensland from a young age, I found that pride and passion and I’m more drawn to the green and gold. It’s the pinnacle of the game, it’s bigger than State of Origin, and to put on that green and gold, for me that’s the highest honour.
“Growing up in Queensland and Australia (from the age of seven), I’m more drawn to the green and gold so it doesn’t feel weird at all (playing against Tonga).
“I might be eligible to play for other nations, but my heart is with the green and gold.”
While Kaufusi does not question his allegiance, he has had trouble convincing his family who to cheer for on Saturday night.
His parents, sister and a host of cousins will be in the crowd at Mt Smart Stadium as Australia play Tonga for the first time.
“The old man reckons he’s going to wear half green and half red,” Kaufusi said. “(My parents) are both really supportive and there’s a bit of banter at the moment. They’ve been supportive since I’ve started playing rugby league.
“I feel a sense of belonging to the green and gold and that’s where my drive is.
“(The atmosphere on Saturday might be a) bit intimidating but you have to embrace it and take it to them.”
Despite being part of the Kangaroos World Cup squad last year, Kaufusi naturally kept on an eye on the Tongan side.
He watched on as the players were embraced in Tonga following their tournament success.
“It was awesome to see the footage [after the World Cup], just from the Tongan players’ socials, it was pretty awesome,” Kaufusi said. “They’re really proud and a passionate nation and get behind their players.”
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