New Zealand flyhalf Richie Mo’unga could make a shock international switch and represent a Pacific Island nation at the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
Mo’unga has been playing club rugby in Japan since guiding the All Blacks to the 2023 World Cup final.
The 30-year-old’s contract with the Toshiba Brave Lupus runs until 2026, ruling him out of All Blacks contention under New Zealand Rugby’s current policy.
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However, his international future could take a different turn, with Tonga eyeing his services. “We are reaching out to Richie and his agent,” the Tonga Rugby Union told RugbyJP.com, confirming their interest in the former Crusaders playmaker.
World Rugby’s 2021 amendment to Regulation 8 allows players to switch allegiance after a three-year stand-down if they meet birthright criteria. Mo’unga, born in Christchurch to a Tongan father and Samoan mother, could qualify for either Tonga or Samoa.
If he abstains from All Blacks duty, he would be eligible to make the switch by the 2026 November internationals.
Should he take up the option, Mo’unga would join a list of ex-All Blacks who have transitioned to Pacific Island teams, including Charles Piutau, George Moala, Vaea Fifita and Lima Sopoaga.
Photo: Hannah Peters/Getty Images
The post Star playmaker to snub All Blacks? appeared first on SA Rugby magazine.
New Zealand flyhalf Richie Mo’unga could make a shock international switch and represent a Pacific Island nation at the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
The post Star playmaker to snub All Blacks? appeared first on SA Rugby magazine. Read More
