The jerseys may be different, but the Maroons connection will run through all four nations contesting this weekend’s Rugby League World Cup semi-finals.
Australia, New Zealand, Tonga and Samoa boast players who have been a part of the Maroons, highlighting the depth of talent within Queensland ranks.
For Queensland supporters, it means familiar faces on both sides of the field as teammates become opponents and Origin combinations are tested against one another.
Australia’s starting spine has a distinctly maroon feel, with Reece Walsh, Cameron Munster, Tom Dearden and Harry Grant entrusted with steering the Kangaroos against Samoa.
Patrick Carrigan and Tino Fa’asuamaleaui lead the charge up front, with Reuben Cotter named on the interchange and Sam Walker among the reserves.
They will face fellow Maroons, Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow and Francis Molo, who will be aiming to help Samoa reach another World Cup final, a feat they achieved in 2022, but ultimately face defeat at the hands of the Kangaroos at Old Trafford.
Tabuai-Fidow’s fullback showdown with Walsh shapes as a particular highlight, with the two Queensland stars capable of turning a match in a moment.
In the other semi-final, Dane Gagai and Briton Nikora will represent New Zealand, with Kalyn Ponga named among the reserves as he works towards a potential return from an injury sustained in round 1.
Across the field, Robert Toia and Jojo Fifita feature in Tonga’s backline, while fellow Maroons squad member Kulikefu Finefeuiaki has been named in the reserves.
The Kiwis claimed a commanding 40–14 victory when the two nations last met at Eden Park in the 2025 Pacific Championships. Tonga will be looking to reverse that result with a World Cup final berth on the line.
From established Origin players to the newest faces to wear Maroon, the spread of talent offers Queensland fans plenty to anticipate.
Each will carry the pride of their nation and heritage into the weekend, with a place in the World Cup final on the line.
