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Hunter Fujak, Senior Lecturer in Sport Management, Deakin University

Payne Haas’s allegiance switch to Samoa: a threat or an opportunity for rugby league?

On Sunday, one of rugby league’s best forwards, Payne Haas, confirmed his switch in national allegiance from Australia to Samoa.

Haas, who played four Tests for Australia, was born in New South Wales. His mother is Samoan and his father is Filipino-Swiss.

With several other top NRL players considering similar moves, the sport looks set for a period of international rejuvenation just as Australia prepares to host the 2026 Rugby League World Cup.

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