Kidwell today regularly had to take a moment to compose himself when talking about his nightmare Cup preparation.
He was blindsided by Taumalolo's decision to play for Tonga along with the likes of fellow Kiwis Manu Ma'u, Sio Siua Taukieaho and David Fusitu'a.
While Kidwell said he respected Taumalolo's call and believed the hardships had made him a better coach, he was clearly still unhappy with the Cowboys wrecking ball.
Asked if the door would be open to Taumalolo for a future Kiwi return, Kidwell said: "The space we are in right now, it's not up to me."
