Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow is poised to make a significant impact in the rugby league scene as he opts to represent Samoa instead of Australia in the upcoming World Cup. This decision, met with enthusiastic cheers from around 10,000 Samoan fans at a fan day event in Brisbane, showcases the player’s commitment to his heritage and the exciting trajectory of Pacific rugby.
In 2023, Tabuai-Fidow has garnered attention due to a complex eligibility scenario that had kept him sidelined from the end-of-season Tests, primarily due to a knee injury suffered during the final match of the season. Despite this challenge, he had previously made his Test debut for Samoa in the 2022 World Cup, with plans aligned to play for Australia thereafter.
Ben Gardiner, Samoa’s coach, praised Tabuai-Fidow’s return to the national team, calling it a monumental shift that has been anticipated for some time. “It’s absolutely huge, and it’s been in the pipeline for quite some time,” Gardiner stated, emphasizing how the infusion of such elite talent will enhance the team’s prospects as they gear up for their World Cup campaign in 2026. Notably, Samoa’s squad for the upcoming Pacific Cup match against Tonga will include six current State of Origin players, further bolstering their competitive edge.
In addition to Tabuai-Fidow, Stephen Crichton is expected to strengthen the Samoan backline, while Taylan May will miss the Pacific Cup due to an injury. There is also uncertainty surrounding Tino Fa’asuamaleaui, who remains undecided about his allegiance after choosing to tour with the Kangaroos this year.
As the Pacific Cup nears, Tabuai-Fidow’s chances of donning the No.1 jersey for Samoa appear promising, especially if Roger Tuivasa-Sheck makes the switch to rugby. Gardiner remains optimistic about the dynamics Tabuai-Fidow brings to the team, highlighting his remarkable speed and game-changing abilities.
Samoan officials are currently in discussions with the NRL regarding hooker Jazz Tevaga, who is currently on concussion protocols following a head clash in a recent match against New Zealand. There is hope that Tevaga will clear the protocols in time to participate against Tonga.
The match is set to introduce new talent as well, with the inclusion of Ativalu Lisati in the squad due to Jaydn Su’A’s concussion absence, and Tyrone May joining after a successful Super League stint.
In a noteworthy development, Tonga has announced their full-strength squad ahead of this pivotal encounter, building anticipation for a match that promises to deepen the rivalry within Pacific rugby league. The blend of seasoned and emerging players highlights the escalating competitiveness of these teams, setting the stage for an exhilarating and closely contested event.