Overview

• Walters has been appointed head coach for the Kangaroos’ three-Test Ashes tour of England on a short-term deal that could be extended through next year’s World Cup if Australia performs well
• The new coach said he is “not really concerned” about Payne Haas, Tino Fa’asuamaleaui and Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow weighing Samoa representation over Australia
• He intends to phone undecided stars to outline his vision for the national side without pressuring them to commit to Australia
• Kangaroos forward Pat Carrigan publicly backed the trio’s right to honour their Samoan heritage and praised Walters for his ability to unite players from diverse backgrounds
• The Ashes series, the first contested since 2003, begins October 25 at Wembley and will continue in Liverpool and Leeds