Sydney Roosters centre Rob Toia has chosen to represent Tonga at the upcoming Rugby League World Cup, turning down an opportunity with Australia following his club’s grand final success, according to AAP.
Toia, 22, was the subject of an international eligibility battle between Kangaroos coach Kevin Walters and Tongan coach Kristian Woolf. The decision follows the Roosters’ 19-18 NRL Grand Final victory over the Newcastle Knights on October 4, 2026, a match where Toia cemented his reputation as one of the game’s top centres.
Walters is scheduled to announce his Kangaroos squad on Monday morning, but Toia confirmed he will not be included. Speaking to AAP, Toia noted the strength of the Tongan setup influenced his choice. “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 said. While maintaining his long-term goal of playing for Australia in future years, he emphasized his commitment to the Tongan side for the upcoming global tournament.
Tonga is set to open its World Cup campaign against England in Perth on Saturday, October 17, 2026. Meanwhile, fellow Roosters teammate Salesi Foketi has also reportedly indicated he will decline an approach from New Zealand for the tournament.
Follow-up Questions
What is confirmed in this story?
Sydney Roosters centre Rob Toia has chosen to represent Tonga at the upcoming Rugby League World Cup, turning down an opportunity with Australia following his club’s grand final success, according to AAP.
What should readers watch next?
International Ambitions and Team Selection Walters is scheduled to announce his Kangaroos squad on Monday morning, but Toia confirmed he will not be included.
What remains unclear: The available reporting does not yet fully settle the next step in the story.
Perspectives
Tongan Squad Perspective vs Australian Selection Perspective
Story lens
Tongan Squad Perspective
Tongan coach Kristian Woolf gains a vital, high-in-form outside back straight off a premiership-winning campaign. This addition strengthens Tonga’s backline ahead of their tournament opener against England on October 17
Australian Selection Perspective
Coach Kevin Walters must adjust his Kangaroos squad plans ahead of Monday’s announcement following Toia’s rejection. The decision deprives Australia of a developing talent who proved his mettle during the high-pressure grand final
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