Sydney Roosters centre Robert Toia has chosen Tonga over Australia for the 2026 Rugby League World Cup, declaring his allegiance hours after winning the NRL grand final.
Toia told AAP after the Roosters’ 19-18 grand final win over the Newcastle Knights on Sunday 4 October that he will play for Kristian Woolf’s Tonga, as reported by AAP. Nine and Zero Tackle have also reported the decision.
Why Toia chose Tonga
“I just thought of missing out on being a part of a special team and the team has what it takes to win the World Cup,†Toia told AAP. “I’d be stupid to not want to be a part of it.â€
“I’d still love to achieve that Australian dream but I feel like I’ve still got so much footy to play and I still back myself to put myself in contention in any other year.â€
The 22-year-old debuted for Tonga in 2025 and said his premiership ring would sit next to his rookie of the year and centre of the year trophies.
What it means for the Kangaroos
Toia had been pursued by both Kangaroos coach Kevin Walters and Tonga coach Woolf. Zero Tackle reported that Walters had expressed confidence as little as a week earlier that Toia would play for Australia.
Under international rules, players can switch between a Tier 1 and a Tier 2 nation once a year, which is why Toia could choose between the two sides, according to Zero Tackle.
Walters was due to name his Kangaroos squad at 11am AEDT on Monday 5 October, with the Jillaroos squad announced at the same time, Nine reported. Zero Tackle said Newcastle’s Bradman Best and Brisbane’s Kotoni Staggs are likely options to fill the centre spots.
AAP also reported that Roosters teammate Salesi Foketi has indicated he will turn down an approach from New Zealand.
World Cup dates
The tournament starts on Thursday 15 October, when Australia play New Zealand in Sydney. Tonga open their campaign against England in Perth on Saturday 17 October.
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