Samoa monitor Payne Haas as possible World Cup injury replacement

Samoa coach Ben Gardiner is monitoring Payne Haas as a possible injury replacement for the World Cup finals. Haas was named in Samoa’s preliminary 40-man squad, making him eligible to be called in if another player is ruled out, and several Samoan players are carrying injuries. However, Haas is recovering from finger surgery, and South Sydney officials doubt he will be ready in time. Gardiner said any decision would be up to Souths and Haas. Samoa face Tonga on Sunday in a match that will decide the final semi-final placings.

By Dean Ritchie, CODE Sports — read the full story