The Kangaroos have made several changes to their team for the upcoming Pacific Championships, recalling Valentine Holmes after he missed the opening game due to a ban. Holmes had been suspended for posting a photo on social media with a small bag filled with white powder. Rookies Nicho Hynes and Tom Flegler will also be making their international debuts against New Zealand.
Starting props Payne Haas and Tino Fa’asuamaleaui will be rested for the game against the Kiwis, allowing Holmes and Flegler to take their places. Reuben Cotter will start in the back row, replacing the rested Liam Martin. These changes will give an opportunity for Hynes, the 2022 Dally M Medal winner, to make his Kangaroos debut off the bench.
The decision to recall Holmes shows that the Kangaroos are willing to give him another chance despite his previous off-field incident. Holmes had faced criticism and punishment for his social media post, but it seems that the team management believes in his ability and wants him back in the squad.
The ban and the ensuing controversy surrounding Holmes’ post raised questions about the responsibility of athletes on social media. It serves as a reminder of the impact that their actions can have on their careers and public image. However, it is also a chance for players to learn from their mistakes and grow as individuals.
The inclusion of rookies Hynes and Flegler in the team is an exciting development. It shows that the Kangaroos are looking to the future and giving opportunities to talented young players. Both Hynes and Flegler have had impressive performances in the NRL, and their international debuts will be a significant moment in their careers.
The rested players, Haas and Fa’asuamaleaui, have been key contributors to the Kangaroos’ success in recent games. Resting them for the match against New Zealand indicates that the team management values their well-being and wants to manage their workload effectively. It also gives other players a chance to step up in their absence and prove their worth.
Overall, the changes made by the Kangaroos for their upcoming game against New Zealand highlight the team’s commitment to giving opportunities to young talent and managing the workload of their key players. The recall of Valentine Holmes despite his previous ban shows the team management’s belief in his abilities. It will be interesting to see how these changes impact the team’s performance and if the rookies can make a strong impression in their international debuts.
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