Leuluai wants to play for Samoa

Widnes forward Macgraff Leuluai is hoping to represent Samoa at the 2013 Rugby League World Cup.

Leuluai, 22, was born in Wakefield and comes from a family that boasts two former New Zealand internationals, but will push to play for Samoa when the UK hosts the World Cup in October.

He said: “I am eligible to play for Samoa and I’d definitely put my hand up to play for them at the end of the year.

“Even if I’m not selected I would have to say that I’ll be supporting Samoa, even though my family have also represented New Zealand.

“It’d keep my mum happy as it’s where my heritage is, and to be honest, I think Samoa have a great chance of doing well. We’re in a tough group but we have every chance of progressing.

“Both Samoa and Tonga are getting stronger every year and I think other teams begin to fear coming up against the Island nations, as there are so many Super League and NRL players on board now.

“It would be an honour to be picked for the Samoan team, but I just have to get myself noticed with my performances for Widnes.”

Samoa will face New Zealand, Papua New Guinea and France in the group stages of the 2013 Rugby League World Cup.