Rugby League Superstar Roger Tuivasa-Sheck to Represent Samoa in England Tour
Dual-code rugby sensation Roger Tuivasa-Sheck has decided to switch his international allegiance to Samoa, turning down an opportunity to feature for the New Zealand Kiwis later this year. The news comes as a major boost for the upcoming two-Test series between England and Samoa, which is set to showcase one of the game’s genuine superstars.
Tuivasa-Sheck, renowned for his success in both rugby codes, has previously represented New Zealand in both league and union. However, the dynamic fullback has now chosen to don the Samoan colors, honoring his family’s heritage from the island where he was born.
“I’ve had talks to Roger and he indicated when he came back to the game he wanted to play for Samoa, represent his family, which I respect,” Jones told 1News in New Zealand. “I said to Rog, ‘I would love you to be available for the Kiwis’, and he thought really hard, but he had already made his decision when he came back to rugby league to represent Samoa which I respect.”
Despite being approached by Kiwis coach Stacey Jones to feature for the nation in the upcoming Pacific Championships, Tuivasa-Sheck has declined the offer, opting instead to represent Samoa during their tour of England later this year.
The Decision’s Impact
The decision to switch to Samoa is a significant boost for the prestige and hype surrounding the two-Test series against England, which has struggled to gain momentum after the Samoans initially pulled out of a proposed three-match tour. With Tuivasa-Sheck now set to be part of the Samoan squad, one of the game’s true icons will be gracing the pitches of England later this year.
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