Papalii seeking payback

JOSH Papalii is plotting the downfall of an Australian side he helped to World Cup glory only four years ago.

Papalii played in the Kangaroos’ 34-2 World Cup win against New Zealand in 2013. But tomorrow he lines up for Samoa against many of his former Kangaroo teammates after being overlooked for Australian selection.

“It’s got to hurt when you’ve been in a team for so long [and not] getting picked,” he said.

“Then again my form wasn’t the best. I understand how that plays [out]. I was for- tunate enough to make the Samoan team. I’m pretty happy now. It’s a footy game. I’m playing for Samoa now. That’s who I have to play good for. That’s how I see it.”

Papalii was close to retaining his World Cup spot after being selected in the Prime Minister’s XIII match to play PNG in September. But the death of his grandfather forced his late withdrawal. He was also selected in Australia’s mid-year Test side to play New Zealand but was dumped after a drink-driving charge.

He said Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga had not spoken to him about his Kangaroos demotion. “He is the coach,” Papalii said. “He selected his team, who he thought could win the World Cup. I was not in there.”

Samoa progressed through the pool stages despite not winning a match. Their only result was a 14-all draw against Scotland last weekend.

“We’ve had a look at our stats and compared to other teams we’ve made the most errors in the World Cup so far,” Papalii said. “I think that’s where it’s letting us down at the moment.

“Anyone who’s going up against Australia is going to be underdogs.”