The Aquis Titans have more players than any other NRL club who are eligible to be voted to join the Indigenous All Stars in the historic match against an international All Stars game at Suncorp Stadium in February.
The Harvey Norman Rugby League All Stars concept format has been changed to the Indigenous team taking on a ‘World’ All Stars team comprising players from Australia, New Zealand, England, Fiji, Samoa, Tonga, PNG and France.
The Titans have seven players who have been listed for voting by the fans – Greg Bird, Josh Hoffman, Ryan James, Kierran Moseley, James Roberts, Tyrone Roberts and Ashley Taylor.
Voting is already open (click on the link below).
Earlier this year the club had a tremendous representation in the team with Hoffman, James, Moseley and Brad Tighe playing in the match against the NRL All Stars at Cbus Super Stadium while Bird was selected but could not play because of injury.
Next year’s clash will be played on February 13 at Suncorp Stadium.
The World All Stars team will feature a minimum of four players each from Australia, New Zealand and England while the remaining players will be made up from other nations.
The move follows a review of the annual All Stars match, which has been part of the rugby league calendar since 2010.
NRL head of football Todd Greenberg said the World All Stars team would encourage the players to embrace their countries of heritage.
The Australia, New Zealand and England captains will be automatic selections in the team to again be coached and selected by Wayne Bennett.
The World All Stars team will include at least one player – and a maximum of two players - from each NRL Club.
“The All Stars game will continue to be an important event on our calendar but this change will ensure it is even more relevant and entertaining,” Mr Greenberg said.
“Not only will this move reinvigorate the concept, it will also ensure some of the best players from the best rugby league nations are playing together.
“We have seen in recent years the potential of some of the Pacific nations and this will ensure some of those players are given a chance to celebrate their heritage alongside some of the best players in the world from other nations, as well as the game’s finest Indigenous talent.”
Foundation Titan Preston Campbell, the architect of the All Stars concept, took part in today’s launch in Brisbane.
Tickets to the 2016 Harvey Norman Rugby League All Stars match are on sale now. To purchase your tickets, head to www.nrl.com/tickets.
To vote: https://allstars.nrl.com/landing
