“If those boys feel passionate about representing the Pacific Island nations or little countries then so be it, that’s their choice. It makes for a better product.” That was the declaration of Kangaroos forward Pat Carrigan, who threw his support behind a slew of State of Origin stars contemplating defection to Samoa. New Australia coach Kevin Walters faces a battle to field his strongest possible side in the lead-up to this year’s rugby league Ashes series in England. Payne Haas, Tino Fa’asuamaleaui and Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow are considering shifting their allegiances to Samoa – similar to how Jason Taumalolo and Andrew Fifita famously turned Tonga into an international force.