For so long, New Zealand and Australia have been the little guys in the big bad world. To differing extents we play up the fact that we're always the underdog and love to belittle ourselves.

Not when it comes to rugby and rugby league. When it comes to the two sports that we both happen to be pretty good at, we turn in to the greedy, top dog power house that we love to hate.

But we never address it.

Both countries offer something that the Pacific Islands can not. Jobs, financial security and opportunity. While the lifestyle on the islands might be 1000% better than the hustle and bustle of a city, it simply does not offer the same opportunity.

This makes for murky waters with so many talented young footy players having the opportunity to represent either nation - their culture and heritage or their current home.

We like to think that the black jersey means so much more. That the opportunity to play for the Kiwis or All Blacks means more than to represent your culture and your people.

Why should it? Or is it that we're scared. We're scared that a large amount of our talent pool could vanish and appear doing the Siva Tau against our Haka?

We're so used to being the little guy, that we love this power.

The islands won't grow if older veterans are the only players of note to rep their nations. While it's a great gesture and something that should continue, what will really create joy and enthusiasm is seeing Anthony Milford continuing to choose to play for Samoa or Konrad Hurrell showing up for Tonga each year.

I honestly think that the money the players can earn for playing for Samoa/Tonga/Fiji etc should be relatively equal to playing for Australia or New Zealand. The islands will never be able to match the cash stash of Aussie or NZ, so it might take these two nations to actually live up to their 'good natured' persona and help out.

When the financials are taken out of the equation, then it's a level playing field and the choice is simply up to the player. Whether they want to play for their culture or play for the country that gave them opportunity. It's sad that the financial aspect is there, but hey if you can make an extra $50,000 or something playing for the Kangaroos or Kiwis and help out your family, then fair play.

Rugby league ... and rugby are sports that have no impact on the world. There are only a few good teams in each code around the world. For rugby league to grow, and flourish there must be some humility.

For the smaller nations to grow, for rugby league to spread it's wings and genuinely have an impact around the world, the big guys must start to genuinely appreciate the little guys.

Until then, every time there's a test match we'll have the same dramas.