'I won't backflip': Samoa star Payne Haas reveals plan for World Cup

Samoa's star player Payne Haas has definitively stated his commitment to representing Samoa in the upcoming Rugby League World Cup, quashing speculation about a potential switch back to Australia. The Brisbane prop, who has Samoan heritage through his mother, has pledged his allegiance to Toa Samoa.

Haas previously played four Tests for Australia but committed to Samoa for last year's Pacific Championships, where he played a key role in their run to the final. He emphasized his loyalty, stating, "The kind of person I am, I wouldn't backflip on them. I want to represent my mum, my grandmother and my grandad as well, and there is no way in hell that I would (backflip)."

Haas is already considered one of the sport's greats, but leading Samoa to World Cup victory would be a monumental achievement, potentially elevating the profile of Pacific rugby league globally. Samoa is drawn in a competitive pool with France, Papua New Guinea, and Tonga for the tournament, which will be hosted by Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea in October and November.

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The kind of person I am, I wouldn't backflip on them. I want to represent my mum, my grandmother and my grandad as well, and there is no way in hell that I would (backflip).

He is a crucial member of a formidable Samoan forward pack, which includes players like Francis Molo, Jaydn Su'A, and Junior Paulo. The backline boasts premiership-winning stars such as Jarome Luai and Brian To'o. With such talent, there is a strong belief within the team that they can surpass their 2022 World Cup performance, where they were runners-up to Australia.

Haas is currently focused on his club, the Brisbane Broncos, aiming to help them defend their title. He recently starred in the State of Origin decider for New South Wales. Next year, Haas will join the South Sydney Rabbitohs, but his immediate priority remains his club and national team commitments.

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With the kind of calibre of players we have got, there is a great chance, but that is still far away.