Addin Fonua-Blake is in the running to become the first winner of the Golden Boot from outside of rugby league’s ‘big three’ nations following Tonga’s impressive Pacific Cup campaign.
After Tonga reached the final of the tournament with a pulsating win over New Zealand, co-captain Fonua-Blake was one of six players named on the shortlist for the international game’s highest honour.
Fonua-Blake was a stand-out in all of Tonga's games in the tournament and his form for his country can only bode well for his new NRL club Cronulla.
Kangaroos trio Tom Trbojevic, Harry Grant and captain Isaah Yeo were also shortlisted and could become the first Australian players to win the prize since Cameron Smith in 2017.
The Golden Boot shortlist was finalised by Petero Civoniceva, Darren Lockyer and James Graham.
New Zealand’s Keano Kini and England centre Herbie Farnworth are the other players in contention for the prize, which recognises performances in international fixtures only.
“The international game is in strong shape again and excitement is already building for next year, with the first Ashes series since 2003 between Australia and England, while New Zealand, Samoa and Tonga will play in the Pacific Cup,” said International Rugby League chair Troy Grant.
“On behalf of International Rugby League, I would like to congratulate all of the players who showed such pride and passion representing their nations and particularly those who have been nominated for the 2024 IRL Golden Boot.
“It is an outstanding field of candidates and any would be a worthy winner.”
