Kevin Walters is poised to take on the role of Kangaroos coach, though reports suggest he may already face a challenge with Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow contemplating his international career. The talented player, who represented Samoa in 2022, has since donned the green and gold for Australia but is considering a return to Samoa for the upcoming Pacific Championships.
The Kangaroos will embark on a tour to England for an Ashes series at the conclusion of the season, and Walters is expected to be officially appointed as head coach. Tabuai-Fidow’s impressive performances for the Dolphins and Queensland position him as a likely starter for the Australian side. However, he isn’t the only player wrestling with the decision of which nation to represent; teammates Tino Fa’asuamaleaui and Payne Haas are also contemplating their international futures.
Walters has not yet been formally announced as head coach but is anticipated to secure a contract for three matches. If Tabuai-Fidow opts to play for Samoa, Dylan Edwards would likely take the fullback position, with Reece Walsh available as an alternative. In previous competitions, Tabuai-Fidow played in the centre during the Pacific Championships final last year, alongside Xavier Coates and Zac Lomax on the wings, and Tom Trbojevic in the other centre position.
As the situation evolves, fans will be watching closely to see how the players’ decisions affect the Kangaroos’ lineup and Walters’ initial foray into coaching at the international level.