Sport confidential: Roosters star Joseph Suali has signed on for the Rugby League World Cup in Samoa

Teenage sensation Joseph Suaalii is heading to the World Cup but not with the Kangaroos after emotionally touching Australia trainer Mal Meninga.

Sydney Roosters’ teenage sensation Joseph Suaalii has dropped a World Cup bombshell after signing Samoa for the upcoming tournament.

Suaalii personally called Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga on Tuesday to update him of his decision, before confirming to News Corp that he had made the agonizing call to enlist for Samoa over Australia to honor his family.

“Due to family reasons, I have decided to pledge allegiance to Samoa for the upcoming World Cup,” said Suaalii.

“It was one of the most difficult decisions of my career. I am humbled by the respect Kangaroos trainer Mal Meninga shows me and my family.

“I called him personally on Tuesday to let him know my decision. I can’t thank him enough for thinking of me, but this is about more than football.

“This is about respecting my family and the sacrifices they’ve made for me throughout my career. My grandparents still live in Samoa and I look forward to honoring them and my parents by donning the Samoan jersey.

“One day I hope to play for Australia. I really believe Samoa can do great things at this World Cup and I can’t wait to be a part of it.”

Suaalii’s decision is the latest blow to Meninga as he assembles a squad for the World Cup. The 19-year-old was considered a safe pick after a breakout year for the Roosters that had him on the cusp of state of origin.

In a hint at World Cup selection, Suaalii was set to be selected in the Australian Prime Minister’s XIII team to play PNG on Sunday, only to be ruled out with a shoulder injury.

The Roosters star is the latest big name to commit to Samoa. Penrith defenders Brian To’o, Stephen Crichton, Izack Tago, Jarome Luai and Taylan May will dominate the backline. Suaalii or Crichton start at full-back.

Players like Maroons flyer Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and David Nofoaluma will find it difficult to make the starting XI. Nofoaluma scored four tries for Samoa against the Cook Islands in the half-year test.

At the helm of Samoa are Junior Paulo, Josh Papalii, Josh Aloiai and Marty Taupau to choose from.

Payne Haas also toyed with playing for Samoa but has pulled out of the World Cup. Boom backrower Jeremiah Nanai is also eligible, but Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga said he chose Australia, as did Cowboys teammate Murray Taulagi.

Titans skipper Tino Fa’asuamaleau will also play for Australia. Samoa should start as favorites against hosts England to boost the tournament.

Originally published as Sport Confidential: Roosters star Joseph Suaalii signs for Samoa for the Rugby League World Cup