Former New South Wales coach and rugby league icon Brad Fittler has urged league officials to reconsider player eligibility for the State of Origin series, suggesting it should be reserved for those who commit to representing Australia. His comments follow reports that Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, a star for the Dolphins and key player in Queensland’s recent series victory, is contemplating the possibility of leaving the Kangaroos to play for Samoa in the upcoming Pacific Championships.
Tabuai-Fidow, along with fellow Australian representatives Payne Haas and Tino Fa’asuamaleaui, may shift their allegiances to Samoa. All three players have represented Australia and are likely candidates for selection in the first Kangaroo Tour since 2003.
The Pacific Championships, which feature competitive Cups and Bowls, receive funding from the Australian federal government and the National Rugby League (NRL). The topic of player eligibility has gained prominence in recent years, especially as players from tier-two nations increasingly participate in State of Origin matches.
Fittler argues that representing the Kangaroos seems less significant for some players today, despite the enduring popularity of the interstate series. He posits that excluding players eligible for tier-two nations from State of Origin might be necessary to revive the prestige associated with wearing the Australian jersey. He stated, “State of Origin’s the one that everyone loves playing. Unless you take State of Origin away from those tier-two nations, then that won’t change.”
There is considerable advocacy, especially among Polynesian players, to encourage participation in teams like Samoa or Tonga. While Fittler appreciates the competitiveness of the Pacific nations in events like the World Cup, he believes that historical significance should prevail, suggesting matches like those at Wembley carry more weight than Pacific Nations games.
Tabuai-Fidow, who played for Samoa in the 2022 World Cup, has represented Australia multiple times but faced challenges with injuries. As discussions of team leadership transition towards Kevin Walters, Fittler emphasised that national coaches shouldn’t need to persuade players to wear the national jersey, highlighting a concerning trend where players sometimes neglect to respond to outreach efforts.
Fittler dismisses fears that restricting State of Origin eligibility would diminish the quality or enthusiasm for the series, insisting that support for the jersey is rooted in understanding its historical significance. He encourages players to embrace the legacy of the game, confident that as long as individuals give their best in representing their state, State of Origin will retain its status as the pinnacle of rugby league.
In conclusion, Fittler’s call to evaluate the future of player eligibility reflects broader concerns over national representation and the integrity of the game. He advocates for a balance between enhancing competition in the Pacific Championships and safeguarding the revered traditions of State of Origin.