Former New Zealand and Samoa league rep Frank Pritchard thinks the international game would benefit from the next NRL expansion team being a blend of Maori and Pacific Islanders.

Mana Pasifika is banking on fan support and playing depth to spearhead its bid to secure an NRL licence for an expanded 20-team comp in 2032.

Pritchard says the recent rise of Tonga, Samoa and Fiji in the international pecking order provides a pathway for Polynesians playing league.

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