The Tier 1 teams in the 2017 Rugby League World Cup are filled with superstars from the NRL and the Super League.
However, the other teams in the competition also contain a number of NRL stars that are some of the best players in the world. This team is made up of the best 17 NRL players that are representing Tier 2 and 3 teams.
Fullback: James Tedesco (Italy)
James Tedesco has had an excellent season, particularly in representative football. He was unlucky to miss out on selection for Australia and will look to demonstrate what he could have added to the Kangaroos.
Winger 1: Suliasi Vunivalu (Fiji)
Perhaps the best winger in the NRL, Suliasi Vunivalu will be huge for Fiji. His strength, speed and finishing ability will be a threat to every team Fiji faces.
Centre 1: Michael Jennings (Tonga)
Michael Jennings is no stranger to international football, and his addition to the Tongan side is a huge bonus. Jennings has been an excellent centre his entire career and is still one of the best in the world.
Centre 2: Konrad Hurrell (Tonga)
Konrad Hurrell is one of the most explosive players in the NRL and he will no doubt add a lot to the Tongan side. Hurrell’s strength and skill in attack cannot be underestimated by any team.
Winger 2: David Mead (Papua New Guinea)
David Mead will lead Papua New Guinea at the World Cup and the exceptional winger will play to the best of his ability. Mead has shown that he is one of the best finishers in the NRL and he will look to show his skills on the international stage.
Five-Eighth: Tuimoala Lolohea (Tonga)
Tuimoala Lolohea has demonstrated great skill during his time in the NRL. Though his move to the Tigers was not as stellar as he would have liked, Lolohea will have an opportunity to showcase his ability at international level.
Halfback: Mitchell Moses (Lebanon)
Mitchell Moses is one of the best young halves in the game and Lebanon will benefit greatly due to his selection. The international arena will be a great opportunity for Moses to improve as a player.
Prop 1: Andrew Fifita (Tonga)
Andrew Fifita was originally selection for Australia for good reason. On his day, Fifita is the most destructive forward in the game and he will lead Tonga from the front.
Hooker: Robbie Farah (Lebanon)
Robbie Farah is a former Australia and New South Wales player and is still considered by many to be one of the best hookers in the NRL. His experience and leadership will be invaluable to Lebanon.
Prop 2: Paul Vaughan (Italy)
After an outstanding NRL season, many expected Paul Vaughan to be selected for Australia. However, his non-selection means that Italy will be represented by one of the NRL’s form props.
Second-Row 1: Josh Papalii (Samoa)
Queensland forward Josh Papalii was dropped by Australia mid-year for disciplinary reasons. This means that Samoa is able to select one of the most powerful second-rowers in the NRL who will no doubt look to lead the team.
Second-Row 2: Manu Ma’u (Tonga)
Manu Ma’u was one of the players responsible for the Eels top four finish due to his strong season. He is a quality player in both attack and defence and will add a lot to the Tonga forward pack.
Lock: Jason Taumalolo (Tonga)
Jason Taumalolo is not only the best lock in the NRL but the best forward. His decision to represent Tonga at the World Cup has shocked the world, and New Zealand will wish they had his services rather than having to contain him.
Interchange 1: Korbin Sims (Fiji)
Korbin Sims has had a great year with the Broncos and will look to take his form to the international stage. Sims will provide Fiji with strong running in attack and hard hits in defence.
Interchange 2: Junior Paulo (Samoa)
Junior Paulo’s huge frame has allowed for him to become one of the most intimidating props in the game. He will once again represent Samoa where he will look to dominate opposition teams with his size.
Interchange 3: Frank Pritchard (Samoa)
Samoa’s Captain Frank Pritchard is a veteran of the game and is a fitting leader for the Samoan team. Pritchard did not have the happiest season at the Eels but his talent is undeniable and he could be a force at the World Cup.
Interchange 4: Apisai Koroisau (Fiji)
Apisai Koroisau is rapidly developing into a great hooker for the Sea Eagles. With Fiji boasting a number of strong forwards Koroisau will be able to excel in the number nine jersey and show off his ability as a player.
Comments are closed.