Tongan star Jason Taumalolo says he was too drunk to answer desperate calls from Kiwis coach David Kidwell after he made the shock decision to switch allegiances for the Rugby League World Cup.
The 24‑year‑old broke his silence and finally explained his thinking behind his decision to turn his back on the Kiwis to represent the Pacific Island side following Tonga's stunning 28‑22 upset victory over New Zealand in Hamilton.
The world's best forward was slammed for leaving the Kiwis and was accused by Kiwis captain Adam Blair of disrespecting Kidwell and the black and white jersey for failing to front up and explain himself.
The North Queensland lock admitted he had regrets about the way the drama unfolded but revealed he was too intoxicated to even think about picking up the phone as he enjoyed the Cowboys celebrations following their grand final defeat to Melbourne.
Looking at the Rugby League World Cup quarterfinal draws, Australia face Samoa at 10.30pm Friday, Tonga meet Lebanon at 5pm Saturday, New Zealand will clash with the Vodafone Fiji Bati at 7.30pm Saturday while England will meet PNG at 6pm Sunday.
Source: Radiosport
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