Keaon Koloamatangi could decide to sit out the World Cup this year, as he weighs up surgery that could benefit his arrival at the Dragons in 2027.
The 28-year-old’s versatility saw him called up by Kangaroos coach Kevin Walters last year, featuring in all three matches in the Ashes series.
Keaon Koloamatangi of the Rabbitohs Getty Images
With the likes of Angus Crichton and Hudson Young unavailable for the upcoming tournament, Koloamatangi was likely to be included again.
However, the versatile Rabbitohs forward could be forced to undergo knee surgery, which would further delay him kicking off his first Dragons pre-season on a five-year deal worth an estimated $5 million.
While a $40,000 flat cheque may influence the choices of some players heading to the World Cup, Koloamatangi will look to what his best for his health.
He also denied that the money on offer to play for Australia compared to if he decided to pledge allegiance to Tonga would be a factor.
“When it comes to that [pay] stuff, we get paid pretty well with our salaries – if you only play for your country because of the money, that’s pretty weak,” Koloamatangi told The Sydney Morning Herald on Tuesday.
“My decision won’t be based on money. My body is pretty sore at the moment, and I need to go for a few scans at the end of the year, just to see if I can play.
“It’s a possibility [I don’t play at all]. I’ll keep it [my options] open. I’ll get my knee checked out. I’ve also had a few niggles in the lower back.
“I don’t want to make myself look like a fool if I don’t play well because I’m injured – I’ll make the call when the time comes.
Koloamatangi is eligible to represent Tonga at the World Cup, which would instead see him or any other players earn $850 per game instead of the five-figure sum.
But even with the opportunity to choose between two nations, Koloamatangi reiterated that he does not want lingering injuries to impact his future.
The discussion of his past injuries and future management comes just days out from South Sydney’s clash against the Bulldogs on Friday night.