Emotions were high before a ball was kicked as an emotional Haka and Indigenous War Cry set the scene for an epic All Stars clash at CommBank Stadium.
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The Maori side kicked things off first with Leo Thompson leading the way. The emotion was clear for Dane Gagai, who has previously represented his dad’s heritage with the Indigenous team but wanted to honour his mum with the Maori All Stars.
Maori coach Adam Blair also took part in the Haka, while James Fisher-Harris and Jordan Riki starred too.
The Indigenous team then responded with Shaquai Mitchell leading the War Cry. Hamiso Tabuai-Fidow, Brent Naden and Rabbitohs young gun Tyrone Munro featured heavily.
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The War Cry finished with the Indigenous side lined up in front of the Maori side and Bud Sullivan staring into the eyes of Kurtis Morrin.
“The challenge has been issues and the challenge has been accepted,” Fox League commentator Dan Ginnane said.
“Boy oh boy, there really is nothing like it.”
Fox League expert added: “Some great emotion, some great pride and passion representing their people.”
Meanwhile, back in the Fox League studio, Cooper Cronk was in awe of the Indigenous and Maori players.
“This is intensity and respect all in one… I could not take my eyes off the television screen,” he said.
Kiwi legend Shaun Johnson, who was on the Fox League panel added: “I’ve done it a few times but seeing it will never get old. I literally have goosebumps watching it. And as for the Indigenous boys, you can see the meaning and how special it is to them.”
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