As the countdown to the Pacific Championships in October begins, excitement is steadily building among rugby league fans, particularly those following Toa Samoa, one of the most captivating teams on the international stage.
Earlier this week, a speculative Toa Samoa team list shared by NRL on Nine and reported by Michael Chammas of The Sydney Morning Herald generated significant online engagement, sparking conversations across the rugby league world. While the list is not official, it has stirred anticipation and debate, especially among Samoan fans eager to see what their 2025 squad could look like.
The potential lineup features a mix of seasoned international stars and rising young talent:
Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Brian To’o, Izack Tago, Stephen Crichton, Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, Blaize Talagi, Jarome Luai, Terrell May, Danny Levi, Payne Haas, Jeremiah Nanai, Jaydn Su’A, and Tino Fa’asuamaleaui, as well as Sua Fa’alogo, Spencer Leniu, Josh Papali’i, and Shawn Blore.
While this list is not yet confirmed by Toa Samoa or the Pacific Championships committee, its circulation has already ignited passionate responses from fans and analysts alike. The inclusion of names like Payne Haas and Tino Fa’asuamaleaui, two of the NRL’s most dominant players has been a particular point of interest. Both players, with deep Pacific heritage, have long been admired by Samoan supporters, who hope to see them formally align with Toa Samoa in future campaigns.
Their addition to the blue jersey would add considerable size, leadership, and explosiveness to an already formidable squad. With Haas’ unmatched engine and work rate, and Fa’asuamaleaui’s physical presence and aggressive running style, Samoa’s forward pack could rival the best in the world, a thrilling prospect heading into the 2025 international season.
What makes this moment in time particularly intriguing is the fusion of generational pride and world-class talent. Following their historic run to the 2022 Rugby League World Cup Final, Toa Samoa has firmly established itself as a powerhouse on the rise. The potential for a squad stacked with names like Crichton, To’o, and Luai, now possibly joined by Fa’asuamaleaui and Haas, underscores a golden era in Samoan rugby league.
Still, fans must wait for the official 2025 squad announcement, which is expected closer to the Pacific Championships kickoff. When that day arrives, anticipation is sure to reach fever pitch. Samoans across the globe from Apia to Auckland, Brisbane to California will be watching closely, hoping to see their favorite stars wear the blue jersey once again.
Until then, posts like the one from NRL on Nine will continue to spark excitement, speculation, and spirited discussion. One thing is certain: if this is a preview of what’s to come, Toa Samoa is poised to make serious noise on the international stage once again.
What do you think of this potential lineup? Is this the squad that can go all the way? Who would you swap in, who’s your starting 13, and who do you want coming off the bench?
Should Payne Haas and Tino Fa’asuamaleaui rock the blue jersey next year? Are there any rising stars you think deserve a call-up? Let’s hear it, your dream team, your bold takes, your hot predictions!
