The Kangaroos’ Ashes assault is expected to be dealt a monumental blow with Brisbane Broncos enforcer Payne Haas on the verge of pledging his allegiance to Samoa at the end of the season. Haas, arguably the best front-rower in the competition, has been in discussions with Samoan Rugby League officials about representing his heritage at the Pacific Championships at the end of the year. Haas won’t make his decision public until at least after this year’s Origin series and is focusing his attention on leading the Broncos to a premiership. However, sources with knowledge of the situation talking under the condition of anonymity say Haas plans to represent a different part of his heritage in the Pacific Championships.