League
1News

'There was never an uproar when they were taken out of the Tongan teams' – coach slams those who criticise stars

October 12, 2017

Kristian Woolf says the double standards are "a little bit funny".

Tonga coach Kristian Woolf has slammed the reactions of others after several key players chose to represent the nation of their heritage at this year's Rugby League World Cup.

The likes of Jason Taumalolo and Andrew Fifita have turned their backs on New Zealand and Australia respectively, opting to represent Tonga - drawing criticism across both sides of the Tasman.

Woolf though, questions why a similar fuss wasn't made when the players were picked for other nations in the first place.

"I find it a little bit funny," Woolf told 1 NEWS.

"If you want to find out about Jason maybe you should ask Jason and the Tongan team," said Nikau.

"Every one of those guys have played for Tonga before the other nations.

"There was never an uproar when they were taken out of Tongan teams.

"The decision that these guys have made, and the sacrifices that they've made, is one most people wouldn't make.

The Kiwis coach is still upbeat about his side's chances of taking out the 2017 Rugby League World Cup.

"They've made a very brave call."

SHARE ME