David Fusitu'a chose Tonga over NZ Featured
David Fusitu'a
7 June, 2018. David Fusitu'a has become the first of the 2017 Tongan World Cup defectors to confirm he won't be returning to the Kiwis.
Prolific Warriors winger Fusitu'a said he is available for Mate Ma'a's Test against Samoa in Sydney on June 23, ruling himself out of New Zealand's clash with England in Denver on the same day.
The Auckland-born 23-year-old was among four high-profile former Kiwi internationals who made a late call to represent Tonga in what turned into a thrilling run to the World Cup semi-finals.
Jason Taumalolo, Sio Siua Taukeiaho and Manu Ma'u have yet to announce their allegiance this month.
Last week North Queensland forward Taumalolo said he was still considering his options, although new Kiwis coach Michael Maguire said he had resigned himself to being without those players.
After being criticised for the late nature of his decision last year, Fusitu'a said he had advised the New Zealand Rugby League of his intentions some time ago.
"I believe we're able to do something special by playing for Tonga," he told TVNZ.
"We have the ability to change the future of rugby league in making it more accessible for not only Tongans, but children all over the Pacific."
Prior to his five World Cup Tests with Tonga, Fusitu'a had played twice for the Kiwis on their 2016 tour to Europe.
Fusitu'a is in career-best form with the Warriors and tops the NRL tryscorer charts with 12, alongside Melbourne's Josh Addo-Carr.
-Mail Online
