Ronald Volkman to lead Samoa in World Cup semi against Australia
Samoa's five-eighth Harris-Tavita suffered a hamstring injury; Ronald Volkman will start the World Cup semi-final.
Samoa's five-eighth Chanel Harris-Tavita suffered a left hamstring injury in the 53rd minute of Samoa's 20-18 loss to Tonga on Sunday night. The Warriors star limped off and did not return to the sidelines.
Ronald Volkman, a 24-year-old Eels playmaker, came on in his place and scored a try while helping Samoa briefly take the lead. Coach Ben Gardiner has backed Volkman to wear the No. 6 jersey in next Sunday's semi-final against Australia.
Harris-Tavita will have scans, but the injury likely ends his World Cup. Gardiner said Volkman brought great energy and pace into the line against Tonga.
- 24
- Volkman age
- 27
- Harris-Tavita age
- 20-18
- Samoa loss to Tonga
- Australia
- Semi-final opponent
Why it mattersSamoa's World Cup hopes now rest on a young, untested playmaker stepping up in a semi-final against a strong Kangaroos side.
AustraliaThe NRL World Cup semi-final will be played next Sunday in Australia, with Samoa's chances hinged on whether Volkman can replicate the form he showed off the bench.
Corroborated bysmh.com.au
✓ Claims checked against the source. checked 3 h ago
