The Country boys won both games, wrapping up the tour with a thumping 46-10 win over Samoa, after earlier accounting for Samoa Residents in a warm-up clash.

The final game helped mark the country’s 30 year celebration at Apia Park, with Fiji edging Samoa in the first international game of rugby league played in Samoa.

Speaking in a Country Rugby League video, Naden, who played in the centres on tour, said he wouldn’t have had the chance to tour if it weren’t for the support of his community.

“I’d like to thank friends and family back home, and especially my footy club, wouldn’t be here without them,” Naden said.

A St John’s Dubbo product, coach Andrew Ryan said the tour was a sensational experience for all involved, with Western Rams players Joey Hobby (Blayney), Matt Burton (St John’s), Tyrone Harrison (Orange CYMS) and Charlie Staines (Forbes) joining Naden on tour.

“The guys, the young fellas on this tour are a champion young guys. They’ve been respectful, good young kids,” Ryan said.

“It’s been an experience we the boys won’t forget.”