Panthers star Brian To'o has pledged his allegiance to Samoa for this year's Rugby League World Cup, despite featuring in the past two State of Origin series.
The fan-favourite winger has been a standout at club and rep level in recent years, with his strong carries and tackle-breaking ability making him one of the most damaging outside backs in the NRL.
To'o has played five games for NSW to date, scoring three tries, but has revealed his ambitions to represent his family at the upcoming RLWC.
Speaking on Triple M's Dead Set Legends, the 23-year-old proudly stated his desire to play for Samoa and it could open the door for other Pacific Island players to snub Australia despite playing Origin.
“Definitely I will be playing in the World Cup...I’m going to putting on the red and blue jersey of Samoa. I’m committed to Samoa," he said.
"Obviously it would mean the world to me to put on the jersey and it’s a massive opportunity to play for Australia.
"(But) my people and my family mean more, so I will definitely play for my family."
Blues teammates Daniel Tupou and Kotoni Staggs could line up for Tonga in the upcoming tournament, while QLD star Josh Papalii could don the Samoan jersey should he miss out on Australian selection.
The 2022 RLWC will kick off in mid-October.
