Stephen Crichton thought Payne Haas was just mucking around in Origin camp when they discussed the possibility of him playing for Samoa later this year, but those Leura chats have become a reality with the world’s best prop committing his allegiance to the reigning World Cup finalists.

Haas made the decision on Sunday morning in a huge boost to a Samoan side that could boast one of the most formidable forward packs ever assembled if Tino Fa’asuamaleaui joins Haas, Terrell May and other stars for the Pacific Championships.

There was a strong Samoan contingent in Blues camp this year, with Crichton, Brian To’o, Jarome Luai and Spencer Leniu able to chat with Haas, who has switched from Australia in a huge boost for the international game.

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“We mucked around a lot about it, and I thought he was mucking around as well. But seeing the announcement was pretty cool,” Crichton said.

“You see a lot of the Samoan and Tongan boys going back and representing (their heritage) and it’s cool and you can see what it means to their people.”

Crichton was born in Samoa and can understand why the national anthem played a key role in Haas’ decision after the star prop felt emotional standing in line during a 2023 Test while playing for the Kangaroos.

His move could mean others follow suit, with Crichton excited about what the future held for his nation while also feeling sorry for his teammates who helped them make the World Cup final a few years ago but could now lose their spots.

“Seeing a player of his calibre make the switch over to Samoa (is great) and hopefully a few more boys make the move as well,” he said.

“It’s pretty likely, I hope (that others will follow). Seeing a big name coming over is going to definitely bring confidence and hopefully brings a lot of other big names.

“I feel for a lot of the boys that have already played for Samoa and have put their hand up for Samoa first, but it’s good to get those calibre players.”

Wests Tigers co-captain Api Koroisau proudly represents Fiji and hopes the surge in players opting to honour their heritage will end Australia’s dominance on the world stage.

“I think the game has taken massive steps forward by allowing these international players to play,” he said.

“Australia has been so strong for so long that it’s sort of been one-sided, but I think seeing that players want to play for their heritage (could change that).

“These teams are only getting stronger. Tonga and Samoa have really been picking it up over the last few years, so I’m excited to see what this year brings.”