Pangai Jr rethinks his future in Origin

BRONCOS weapon Tevita Pangai Jr is considering backflipping on his decision to abandon the NSW Blues after conceding he did not realise he would be missing out by committing solely to Tonga.

The Sydney- born Pangai Jr turned his back on State of Origin to commit to Tonga after last year’s incredible World Cup campaign.

His decision meant NSW coach Brad Fittler did not consider Pangai Jr for selection in this year’s series, in which the new- look Blues snapped a three- year losing streak.

If he was available, Pangai Jr would have been in the thick of selection discussions for the Blues, such has been the 22year- old forward’s rise.

Under current rules, Pangai Jr could play Origin and still represent Tonga given it is a tier- two nation, much like Broncos teammate Anthony Milford did by playing for Queensland and Samoa within a fortnight.

Pangai Jr missed the midyear Test against Samoa because of a rib injury and was left wondering if he had made the right decision as the Blues claimed a memorable Origin series victory after Fittler blooded 11 debutants in Game One.

“It was pretty tough actually,” Pangai Jr said.

“Origin is still the pinnacle of our sport. I made my decision coming off a high from the World Cup.

“I’m still loyal to Tonga, but it was pretty tough, I didn’t know what I was missing out on, to be honest.

“If the opportunity comes and Freddie ( Fittler) gives me a call, I will think about it again.

“I want to do something for the international game and that’s playing for Tonga.

“It’s a decision I have to live with. I’ll see what happens in the future.”

Pangai Jr was further rattled when Broncos teammate James Roberts returned to Red Hill after his first Origin.

“He said it was the silliest decision I’ve ever made in my career,” Pangai Jr said.