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Another New Zealand-connected NRL player has stated his intention to play in State of Origin after eligibility rules changed.
Cronulla Sharks prop Addin Fonua-Blake, who has played once for the Kiwis and 17 times for Tonga, is now eligible to represent New South Wales and is focused on performingwell for his club in the hope of receiving a call from Blues coach Laurie Daley.
“If I just play my brand of footy and if I’m lucky enough or blessed enough to get a call on the day, then I’ll take the opportunity with both hands,” Fonua-Blake said.
“My full focus is how I can play and what I can do for Cronulla Sharks, and I know if I’m playing well and doing my job well here, then I’ll put myself in a position to maybe get a call.”
The former Warriors player, who was born in New South Wales, said he is “passionate” about the chance to represent his state, but his focus is on helping the Sharks improve from their difficult start to the season rather than facing the Maroons.
“I don’t really think about Queensland too much, but when I’m at home, I think about my family and what I’m doing at home and when I’m in here, I think about Cronulla Sharks.
Addin Fonua-Blake has signalled his intention to represent New South Wales in State of Origin after eligibility rules were changed. Photo / Photosport
“And like I said before, if we get a call, then I’ll be thinking about Queensland and New South Wales.”
Briton Nikora qualifies to play for Queensland under the revamped State of Origin eligibility rules. Photo / Photosport
Nikora decided early in his career to play for New Zealand over the Maroons because of his family connections to the country, despite moving to the Australian state before his 13th birthday which made him eligible to play for the Maroons.
The rule change means Nikora can now represent the Kiwis and Queensland.
Kalyn Ponga for the Maori All Stars. Photo / Photosport
Ponga said he was proud of his Māori heritage an,d despite representing Australia in the Junior Kangaroos and the Rugby League World 9s, he felt his sense of belonging lay with the Kiwis.
The 27-year-old is now available to play for New Zealand at this year’s Rugby League World Cup after the International Rugby League Board approved his eligibility switch.
