Kieran Foran’s message was simple, but it has stayed with Ronaldo Mulitalo ever since.

On the eve of New Zealand’s stunning 30-0 victory over Australia in the 2023 Pacific Championships final, Foran challenged his teammates to believe in themselves and the talent they had around them.

For the then 23-year-old Mulitalo, who ran for 165 metres and scored the game's opening try, hearing those words from a Kiwi legend with 34 Test matches of experience made a lasting impact.

“We had a captain’s run and he just said to us about believing - believing we had the troops around us, believing in ourselves and our ability,” Mulitalo told RLWC media.

“When you have a senior player like that who has been around and seen so much, it instilled so much confidence in a young guy like myself and we were able to get the result.”

Now, with New Zealand rated one of the top fancies at this year's Rugby League World Cup, Mulitalo is hoping that same belief can drive the Kiwis to claim the title they last won in 2008.

Growing up, Mulitalo watched the likes of Benji Marshall and Manu Vatuvei lead New Zealand on the international stage, dreaming of one day following in their footsteps.

The Kiwis’ 2008 World Cup triumph at Suncorp Stadium has always stuck with Mulitalo - who now finds himself part of the same proud tradition.

“Uncle Benji was at his absolute best during that period,” Mulitalo said.

“Fond memories of that when you’re a kid watching those guys running around.

“Such a surreal feeling knowing guys like Manu Vatuvei were wearing this jersey, the privilege I get to share knowing that I played with him.”

Even after establishing himself as one of the premier wingers in the NRL, the 26-year-old still finds himself reflecting on what it means to represent the country he grew up in.

“You kind of pinch yourself... is this real, am I actually playing, am I actually in this jersey, am I actually singing the national anthem standing in front of thousands of people on the national stage,” he said.

“I’m a real proud Kiwi, every time I get the chance to pull on the jersey, whether it’s playing or backing up or helping out, it’s special.”

That pride will be on show again when New Zealand face the Cook Islands in Christchurch on Saturday, with Mulitalo set to come up against good friend and Sharks teammate KL Iro.

The pair have shared plenty together at Cronulla, but their international allegiances will put them on opposite sides, with Iro choosing to represent the Cook Islands despite being eligible for New Zealand.

Having played junior rugby league in Auckland, Iro had the opportunity to represent the Kiwis but ultimately chose to follow his family and culture.

Mulitalo has nothing but respect for that decision, believing players like Iro can help strengthen the international game and inspire the next generation of Pacific Island talent.

“KL had the chance to come back to New Zealand and represent us but he decided he wanted to go to the Cook Islands, and I think that shows how much love he has for his nation,” Mulitalo said.

“It’s going to take players like that to change the international scene and to make waves and encourage all the Cook Islands kids that there is a pathway throughout the international stage.

“Regardless of results, the fact that they are here is important for him and the fact that they get to play on the world stage against world-class players is massive for himself, his family and the small nation he has so much to be proud of.”