Dolphins young gun Isaiya Katoa is open to following in Roosters star Joseph Suaalii’s footsteps in switching to rugby union, but only for the chance to play for the All Blacks.
The Sydney Morning Herald reported the teenage prodigy, who will drive the ship for the Dolphins in the absence of injured duo Sean O’Sullivan and Anthony Milford, will consider switching codes in the future.
The 19-year-old played rugby union for Barker College and represented the Australian Schoolboys team last year.
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Katoa had a meeting with the ACT Brumbies about a potential switch to Super Rugby before committing to the Dolphins on a three-year deal.
Katoa played junior rugby with Suaalii and was happy to see his old teammate rejoin the 15-man game and wouldn’t rule out doing the same in the future.
“I’m so glad for Joey, and either code he plays he was going to be a superstar,” Katoa told The Sydney Morning Herald.
“We spoke after my debut [in Round 1], he was happy for me, and actually apologised to me for jamming me in the first half when we played.
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“He’s one of the most genuine and humble guys you will meet.
“I’d never close out the opportunity to play rugby union because I grew up playing rugby union. It was the first sport I played.
“I haven’t had any contact with Eddie [Jones]. I had a bit of exposure with the Brumbies last year, and it was good to see the professional systems in place with rugby union and compare them to the professional systems in place in rugby league.
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“Who knows, maybe down the line … but it would definitely be with New Zealand. I was born in New Zealand and spent my first nine or 10 years in New Zealand. All I wanted to be was an All Black. I’d never close that door.”
Katoa’s father Kotoni told the Herald last month his dream was to see his boy play for the All Blacks
“It would be his biggest dream as well, to be an All Black; he still has that dream in the back of his mind,” Katoa Senior said.
Incoming All Blacks coach Scott Robertson has revealed he will keep a close eye on all available talent playing professionally in Australia.
