It just doesn’t add up that players from Tonga and Samoa are being paid less per game at the World Cup than what a good bush footballer can earn playing local A grade in front of family and friends.
Paul Crawley criticizes the significant pay disparity at the Rugby League World Cup, where Australian players receive a flat $40,000 fee while Pacific nations like Tonga and Samoa earn just $850 per game. Following Tonga's narrow 20-18 victory over Samoa, Crawley argues that tier-two nations have proven their elite status and deserve equal remuneration, questioning why the Rugby League Players Association has not advocated equally for all NRL players.
Crawley also raises concerns regarding Australia's performance despite a 66-6 win over the Cook Islands. He argues that Australia's forward pack lacks the intensity demonstrated by New Zealand, Tonga, and Samoa, while urging Kangaroos coach Kevvie Walters to make crucial selection calls regarding Latrell Mitchell ahead of the upcoming semi-final against Samoa.
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