Andrew Johns, a selector for the Kangaroos, has praised Payne Haas’s decision to switch allegiances to Samoa, suggesting it will significantly benefit the international rugby league scene. Reports indicate that Haas, 25, is set to honour his Samoan heritage, stepping away from the Kangaroos, for whom he has played four matches since 2019.
Haas, who has Samoan, Swiss, and Filipino ancestry, will join well-known players like Brian To’o and Jarome Luai as Samoa aims for its first World Cup title in 2026. Johns expressed his enthusiasm for the move during an interview with Wide World of Sports’ Immortal Behaviour, stating his strong support for international football and emphasising that Australia does not need to dominate by consistently winning World Cups.
“Australia winning all the time isn’t beneficial,” he remarked, highlighting that this shift could allow nations like Samoa, Tonga, and New Zealand to become serious contenders in future tournaments. Haas’s choice means he will be available for the upcoming Pacific Championships, though it also excludes him from Australia’s Ashes tour.
Further changes might be on the horizon for the Kangaroos, with Tino Fa’asuamaleaui and Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow also considering joining Samoa. Johns pointed out that if Fa’asuamaleaui makes the switch, Australia’s playing style under new coach Kevin Walters would have to adapt considerably.
Johns explained, “The absence of players like Tino will completely alter the dynamics for Australia. They will need to adjust their strategy and play a more expansive game.” He has had discussions with Walters about shaping the squad, anticipating a fresh style of play for the national team.
“It’s crucial to determine a cohesive playing style that the players can embrace,” he noted, emphasising the need to select individuals who fit the chosen approach. Johns conveyed excitement about the prospect of an evolving brand of rugby that would ultimately benefit both Australia and international competition.
The Kangaroos are preparing to travel to England for a Test series this October, marking a pivotal moment as they embrace these changes and anticipate future tournaments with renewed strategies.