Just weeks ago he looked to be joining the increasing number of players opting to represent their home nations and smaller teams at the upcoming Rugby League World Cup, but now North Queensland Cowboys centre Valentine Holmes has confirmed heโll be available for coach Mal Meninga if required.
It was at the start of August that reports emerged suggesting Holmes was considering representing the Cook Islands, admitting that heโd spoken to coach Tony Iro about the chance to represent his motherโs birth-place.
But thanks in-part to a revitalising run home with the Cowboys through to the preliminary finals, Holmes has now seen fit to reaffirm his commitment to the green and gold.
READ: Every World Cup Squad as it's announced.
โI canโt turn my back on Australia,โ Holmes told the Courier Mail.
โIโm born in Australia, born in Townsville and Iโve played Origin for Queensland.
โFor me, the right thing to do is put Australia first and if I do get selected by Mal, thatโs awesome. If I donโt, then Iโll make myself available for Cook Islands.
โWhen the time comes, the right thing to do is represent Australia.โ
The news is likely to be welcomed by Mal Meninga, with Holmes a strong candidate to walk into the squad after a stellar 2022 season that saw him finish atop the NRLโs point-scoring charts.
Even in the heartbreaking loss to the Eels he was influential, finishing the game with 148 attacking metres, a try assist, a line break and six tackle breaks.
Heโs also the owner of an impressive record in the Kangaroos jumper, having scored 17 tries in 13 Test appearances already. Though he has only represented Australia on the wing, his proven ability at centre this year will likely give Meninga more options with his backline.
โWearing the green and gold is really special,โ Holmes admitted.
โIโll always cherish my time in the Australian team because you donโt know if your next game for the Kangaroos will be your last.โ
