19 Sep 2012

Kiwis selectors ramp up fight for Papalii

6:42 pm on 19 September 2012

The rugby league tug of war between New Zealand and Australia's State of Origin continues with Canberra Raiders star Josh Papalii named in the latest addition to the Kiwis' train-on squad.

The Auckland-born forward Papalii has declared his intention to represent New Zealand but Queensland coach Mal Meninga has made it clear that he wants to sign the 20-year-old for the Maroons.

The Kiwis selectors are holding firm with the uncapped Papalii, along with the North Queensland Cowboys players Jason Taumalolo and Antonio Winterstein, added to the squad to prepare for the October 13th test match against the Kangaroos in Townsville.

The players come from the two clubs that were knocked out of the NRL play-offs over the weekend. More drama is expected once the season ends for Bulldogs enforcer Sam Kasiano, who like Papalii has indicated his preference for the Kiwis but is also being targeted by Queensland.