BRISBANE, AUSTRALIA – : Payne Haas, the Brisbane Broncos’ powerhouse prop, lit up Suncorp Stadium with a celebratory try in the Broncos’ round three NRL clash against the North Queensland Cowboys. But it’s what’s happening off the field that’s creating major headlines around the rugby league world.
Earlier this year, Haas made headlines after expressing a strong desire to represent Samoa, a move that would send shockwaves through the international game. While the 25-year-old hasn’t yet finalized his representative future, he had hinted that he would make a decision following the 2025 State of Origin series. Now, with Origin in the rearview mirror and the international calendar looming, speculation has reached fever pitch.
The situation has intensified as reports confirm that Samoa is actively courting both Haas and Queensland Maroons leader Tino Fa’asuamaleaui. The Pacific Island nation is trying to persuade the star duo to align with them ahead of the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, a tournament that could redefine the global balance of power if elite talents like Haas switch allegiances.
Though the Broncos forward is eligible for both Australia and Samoa, many believe his cultural heritage and family roots could ultimately sway him to don the blue of Samoa. Haas has spoken emotionally in the past about his upbringing and identity, and representing Samoa would be a deeply personal and meaningful decision.
However, the Australian Rugby League Commission (ARLC) is not giving up hope. Officials remain optimistic that Haas will remain in the green and gold jersey of the Kangaroos. One of their greatest hopes lies in Kevin Walters—Haas’ former coach at Brisbane and a man with a proven record of earning the prop’s trust and loyalty.
It wasn’t long ago that Haas had submitted a formal release request to leave the Broncos. At the time, it looked like the club might lose one of its cornerstone players. But Walters stepped in, had the difficult conversations, and ultimately convinced Haas to stay put in Brisbane. That same relationship could now prove pivotal in the international arena.
Walters, officially unveiled as the new head coach of the Australian Kangaroos on Wednesday, appears to have wasted no time in taking charge of his responsibilities. With the Ashes series against England fast approaching, retaining Haas has become one of his most urgent tasks.
“Look, I understand the decisions these players are facing,” Walters told The Daily Telegraph. “It’s an emotional and personal thing. But I want to make sure the Kangaroos opportunity is properly presented to them. Let’s have that conversation and see where their hearts lie after that.”
While the Kangaroos boast an impressive roster full of elite forwards, Haas brings something special to the table. His sheer power, work rate, and mobility make him arguably the most dominant front-rower in the game today. The NSW Blues wrecking ball is known for steamrolling defensive lines, racking up enormous post-contact metres, and setting a relentless pace for the rest of the pack.
Walters acknowledged Australia’s forward depth but was quick to stress that few players on the planet possess the rare combination of physicality and skill that Haas brings to the international level. Simply put, replacing him wouldn’t be easy.
“Yeah, we’ve got depth,” Walters admitted. “But Payne is Payne. He’s unique. You don’t just find another one of him.”
For Samoa, the idea of pairing Haas with Fa’asuamaleaui would be a major coup. Both players are in their prime and could instantly transform the Samoan forward pack into one of the most feared units in the world. Coming off a World Cup final appearance in 2022, Samoa is eager to build on that momentum, and landing players of Haas’ caliber could be the final piece of the puzzle.
In recent years, the international game has seen a wave of top-tier players elect to represent their heritage nations, helping to grow and legitimize the standing of Tier 2 countries like Samoa, Tonga, and Fiji. These shifts have brought about greater parity, more competitive matchups, and a deeper connection between players and their cultural roots.
If Haas were to commit to Samoa, it would continue that trend—but it would also leave a considerable hole in the Australian lineup. The ARLC and Walters understand the stakes, and they appear to be pulling out all the stops to retain their enforcer.
Walters’ appointment as Kangaroos coach brings a new era to Australian rugby league, and his first major test will be navigating the delicate personal decisions of his stars. His experience with the Broncos and long-standing relationships with players like Haas could be the edge Australia needs.
“I just want them to see everything the Kangaroos jersey represents,” Walters said. “Let them experience the history, the pride, and what it means to be part of this great tradition.”
It’s clear that both sides have compelling cases. Samoa can offer cultural connection and the chance to be part of a rising rugby league revolution. Australia offers prestige, history, and the challenge of competing at the highest level of the game’s oldest rivalry.
For now, Payne Haas remains undecided, but the tug-of-war between two rugby league giants continues to intensify. Whether he runs out with the Kangaroos in the upcoming Ashes or leads Samoa into the next World Cup, one thing is certain—his decision will have lasting impacts on the international game.
As the rugby league world waits with bated breath, all eyes are on Kevin Walters and Payne Haas. The former coach and his most dominant forward now find themselves at another pivotal crossroads—only this time, the stage is even bigger.
