Kiwis selector Tawera Nikau snapped back at reporters today after being questioned about NRL star Jason Taumalolo's decision to play for Tonga at this year's Rugby League World Cup.
Nikau interrupted Kiwis coach David Kidwell, who was fielding a reporter's question about why Taumalolo turned his back on the New Zealand team.
"I think if you want to find out about Jason maybe you should ask Jason and the Tongan team," said Nikau.
"Obviously there has been a lot of media conjecture out of Australia and out of Queensland."
Taumalolo announced yesterday that he will be representing Tonga with Cronulla Sharks star Andrew Fifita also announcing this morning that he will be joining Taumalolo.
Taumalolo has rejected the Kiwis and is set to play for Tonga at this year's Rugby League World Cup.
"I know the Tongan coach resides in Townsville, so obviously there must be some conversations going on there," said Nikau.
"We haven't had any conversations with those guys, you know our focus is clearly on our 24 men that we have named in this team."
The Kiwis lost more players to Tonga with Parramatta second rower Manu Ma'u, Warriors utility back David Fusitu'a and Roosters front rower Sio Siua Taukeiaho confirming today they will play for the Pacific nation.
New Zealand play their first match of the tournament against Toa Samoa in Auckland on October 28.
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