'Small countries, big hearts': To'o excited for first taste of PNG
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PNG Chiefs latest big-name recruit Brian To’o is looking forward to visiting Papua New Guinea for the first time when Toa Samoa meet the Kumuls during Rugby League World Cup 2026.
To’o became the second Samoa star to joins the Chiefs after former Panthers team-mate and close friend Jarome Luai and the pair are now looking forward to beginning their PNG journey together for the Toa on October 24 at Santos National Stadium.
The Test and Origin winger did not visit Papua New Guinea before signing with the Chiefs, believing in the vision presented by club bosses, and will experience his first taste of the rugby league mad country during the World Cup.
“I've never been to PNG before, but I've definitely seen all of the love and support they show for their team. I know that they're definitely passionate and I know that it's pretty crazy so hopefully I have the opportunity to play up there during the World Cup,” To’o said.
"It's obviously going to be a massive rally for both sides. We both come from small countries with big hearts, and everyone is dialled into supporting their own teams so it’s going to be very exciting.”
To'o who has won four premierships with the Panthers and played 17 Origins for NSW, will join the Chiefs for their debut NRL season in 2028.
However, before then he is aiming to help Samoa go one better than their historic finals appearances at the last World Cup in 2022 and last year’s Pacific Cup.
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“We’re obviously building towards that that moment and we've obviously got to do the little things first before we get to that, but I know that from the last World Cup until now there's been so many changes with a few of the Samoan brothers that have put up their hands to pledge their allegiance to Samoa,” To’o said.
“It's obviously going to be pretty tough to squeeze all that talent into one team.”
Payne Haas, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Jeremiah Nanai and Murray Taulagi are just some of the stars set to play for Samoa at RLWC2 after previously having representing Australia.
Tino Fa'asuamaleaui is also considering whether he will make the switch to play alongside the likes of To’o, Luai and Stephen Crichton, Simi Sasagi, Terrell May and Chanel Harris-Tavita at the World Cup.
“Being able to stand on one of the biggest stages in the world and be able to represent our culture and our families and friends is such a massive privilege.
“It's more than just us putting on the jersey, it's representing your parents, your family and your friends, as well. It’s also representing all the people in Samoa.
“A lot of people are doing it tough back in the islands, and I know that one thing that they look forward to is us boys putting on the jersey and representing them and our culture at the World Cup.”
Samoa begin their World Cup campaign at CommBank Stadium on October 16 against France in a double-header with Fetu Samoa and the Jillaroos.
The 2022 World Cup runners-up then travel to Port Moresby to play the Kumuls before returning to Sydney where they will face arch rivals Tonga at CommBank Stadium on November 1 in a match that could decide which of the Pacific powerhouses advance to the semi-finals.
"It's definitely going to be wild, on the field and at the stadium as well, but even outside the stadium, with all the parades and just the love and support from both sets of supporters," To'o said.
"I'm looking forward to that challenge and also that atmosphere. I can't wait for that."
Rugby League World Cup 2026 returns to Australia, New Zealand, and Papua New Guinea. Where nations clash, heroes rise, and legends are forged. 3 World Cups. 26 Teams. The World’s Best. Tickets are now on sale from $19. Don’t miss the pinnacle of global Rugby League.
