More New Zealand internationals are set to turn their backs on the Kiwis and represent Tonga at the Rugby League World Cup, according to reports.
The Daily Telegraph is reporting that Tui Lolohea (Wests Tigers), Solomone Kata (Warriors), Konrad Hurrell (Titans), Manu Vatuvei (Salford), Manu Ma'u (Eels), David Fusitu'a (Warriors) and are set to join Taumalolo and make themselves available for Tonga.
Sydney Roosters' Sio Siua Taukeiaho, who has one cap for New Zealand, confirmed he will play for Tonga on Wednesday night.
- Former Kiwis coach Graham Lowe slams 'disrespect' being shown to New Zealand jersey
- Jason Taumalolo withdrawing from New Zealand consideration to play for Tonga at Rugby League World Cup
It is believed the eight players have decided to switch their allegiances following New Zealand Rugby League's handling of Jesse Bromwich and Kevin Proctor for breaking team protocol earlier in the year.
The pair were suspended from the World Cup after they were caught on CCTV allegedly buying cocaine from a man in Canberra hours after the Kiwis' 30-12 Anzac Test loss to Australia in May.
That adds to the number of players who have already ruled themselves out including Tohu Harris and Kieran Foran.
Former Kiwis coach and current Bradford Bulls owner Graham Lowe told the AM Show that the players are being disrespectful towards the Kiwis' jersey.
"If he wants to inspire young Tongan boys to get into the NRL, he should have demonstrated this at the start of the year," said Lowe.
"It is totally disrespectful to the Kiwi jersey, to David Kidwell and what the game stands for here.
"Whoever doesn't want to play for the Kiwis can bugger off. This country is full of players who would do anything to represent their country, anything at all."
New Zealand will face Tonga in Hamilton on November 11 in the final pool B group game.
They will also face Samoa and Scotland in pool play.
The Kiwis will confirm their 24-man squad for the World Cup on Thursday afternoon.
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