Staines has been electric at fullback throughout the 2016 season, and after starring for Group 11, was hand picked to play fullback for Western in the country championships.

After helping Western Division to the final of the championship in Tamworth – where Jamie Szczerbanik’s outfit lost in heartbreaking fashion, Greater Northern Tigers scoring a try right on the bell to steal victory – Staines, a fullback, will line-up at the back during Country’s tour of the tiny Pacific Island from Saturday, through to next Sunday, October 9.

The Country under 16s will play two matches while on tour, with the side’s game against Samoa a curtain raiser for the historic Samoa versus Fiji Test Match at Apia Park, which is the first international in Samoa.

“We haven’t been given too many instructions yet. It’s just been about getting together and getting to know everyone,” NSW Country five-eighth, St John’s Dubbo product and Western Rams under 16s skipper MAtt Burton said.

“Having a lot of the Western boys in the side has helped.”

The players will also visit schools and communities to help promote the game of rugby league in the Pacific Islands.

The Country under 16s will tour alongside the Country Firsts outfit.

Staines is joined by Brock Naden (Wellington), Joey Hobby (Blayney),Tyrone Harrison (Orange CYMS) and Burton in the Country team.