Luai open to Meninga dialogue amid international tug-o-war

NSW five-eighth Jarome Luai is open to having a conversation with Australian coach Mal Meninga about playing for the Kangaroos, indicating he's yet to make a call on his international future.

Luai made his debut for Samoa at the World Cup in 2017 and has signalled his intentions to help the tier-two nation mirror rivals Tonga and become an international powerhouse in the future.

The 24-year-old's strong Samoan connection with Panthers teammates Brian To'o, Stephen Crichton, Tyrone May and Spencer Leniu is also a factor in his decision.

Meninga is a strong advocate for players who play in the interstate arena to commit to the green-and-gold for Test matches in the same year.

He has made no secret that Luai is on his radar after a blistering start to his State of Origin career for the Blues.

"I've seen some reports that he wanted to give me a buzz," Luai said after Penrith's 13-12 win over Parramatta on Friday night.

"I haven't said 'No' to anything yet so it would be pretty cool to chat to him. You definitely have to respect someone like that and hear what he has to say.

"I've got full respect for what he is to the game."

Luai was sent for scans on a knee injury after his leg was twisted awkwardly in a tackle leading up to Api Koroisau's try in the second half.

They revealed he had suffered a medial ligament injury and was ruled out of playing in Origin III.

That means selectors are likely to bring Wighton off the bench to start at No.6 - a position he plays each week with the Canberra Raiders.

NSW will also need to find a playmaker to partner him in the halves with Nathan Cleary (shoulder) now absent.

After lining up against Moses, Luai said the Eels playmaker was impressive.

"I've watched Parra the last month and they're playing well and he's playing with a lot of confidence which is really good to see," he said.

"If he does come into camp he'll come in under some good form."