Tim Lafai wasn’t just a star for Salford Red Devils last season but also for Samoa during the World Cup as he helped guide them to the final, becoming the first pacific island nation to do so.
Lafai impressed massively during his first season in Super League and made the dream team after six tries in 25 appearances, which the Red Devils have rewarded with a three year contract extension.
Salford management weren’t the only people to be impressed with Lafai and as a result of some injuries he got a late call-up to the Samoan World Cup squad, led by Matt Parish.
Speaking to the Red Devils Youtube channel he recounted his call-up.
“I guess I was lucky, we were looking to go back home to Australia. I guess everything happens for a reason, a few injuries to the squad and getting the message from coach.
“I’m always happy to put my hand up for my country, for my family and for my people. It’s the greatest honour in my professional career to put on that blue jersey. I don’t take it lightly.”
Lafai certainly didn’t take the call-up lightly as he was eventually named in the team of the tournament and ran in six tries including against England in the brilliant semi-final game, however he hadn’t expected that much game time.
“I thought I was just going in to make up the numbers in the squad but we took it game by game and coach was happy for me to be in that squad, but having some great players around me helped that. It’s just been a huge honour and I’m truly blessed to be called back into that squad and represent my country.”
