Kangaroos dealt big World Cup blow in battle for Origin star

NSW Blues Origin star Brian To’o has dropped a bombshell which will deliver a massive blow to Australia’s World Cup chances.

NRL- State of Origin 2022 Game 2 -NSW Blues v QLD Maroons at Optus Stadium, Perth. Jarome Luai and Brian To'o celebrate a try. Picture: NRL Photos

Blues Origin star Brian To’o has confirmed he will represent Samoa over Australia at the Rugby League World Cup.

Appearing on Triple M’s Deadset Legends, To’o said he will be “playing for my family” at the tournament in October.

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“Definitely, I’ll be playing in the world cup and I am going to be putting on the red and blue jersey of Samoa,” he said. “I’ve committed to Samoa.”

“Obviously it will mean the world for me to put on the jersey and its a massive opportunity to be play for Australia but my people and my family mean more.”

It’s a major coup for Samoa with To’o among the leading wingers in the game and likely to have figured in Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga’s plans.

Jarome Luai and Brian To’o will represent Samoa at the World Cup.

The 23-year-old had previously hinted it would be Australia who would win out in the battle of allegiance for the try-scoring sensation. This was despite attempts from Panthers teammate Jarome Luai to convince him to turn out for Samoa.

“I would love to represent Samoa in the World Cup, and it will be my first one if I end up making the team,” To’o told the Herald in February.

“But my parents want me to tick off the box playing for Australia and that’s something I’ve got to take into consideration. I’ll most likely play for Australia if I get chosen.

“The way they see it, making it for Australia is hard and to see their son play in one of the most elite teams ... is something really special.

“My parents want me to do that. It will do them proud to have my last name being selected for Australia.”

To’o has played one international for Samoa in 2019.

Originally published as Kangaroos dealt big World Cup blow in battle for Origin star