Manly Warringah Sea Eagles coach Des Hasler has weighed into the selection debate over Haumole Olakau’atu after urging the blockbuster back-rower to reconsider committing to Tonga for the mid-season Test for a shot at representing the Brydens Lawyers NSW Blues for Origin II in Perth.
Brydens Lawyers NSW Blues coach Brad Fittler will select his team at the completion of Round 15 of the NRL next Sunday for Game Two of the Ampol State of Origin series at Optus Stadium on Sunday 26 June.
The Blues must win the game to square the series after a disappointing 16-10 loss in the opening game and Olakau’atu has surged into contention after dominating for the Sea Eagles in 2022 with seven tries, eight line breaks, 63 tackle busts and an average of 110 running metres per game.
There have been reports that Olakau’atu will knock back any approach from the Blues to represent Tonga in the mid-season Test against Saturday 25 June but Hasler, a True Blue who pulled on the sky blue jersey for his state 12 times, urged him to reconsider.
“I’d think as far as his heritage and Tonga, it’s always going to be there,” Hasler said.
“Origin is a rare game. It’s a piece of history and I know it’s a piece of history for any players’ aspirations.
“He’ll get good counsel in making that decision.”
