"An honour" - Israel Folau set for international return as five players confirm nations switch - Ruck

“An honour” – Israel Folau set for international return as five players confirm nations switch


Israel Folau is targeting a Rugby World Cup return with TONGA after being sounded out by head coach Toutai Kefu.

“Representing your heritage and where you’re from, representing your parents is something that is quite close to not only myself but to many other Polynesians,’ said Folau.

“It would be a huge honour if I got the opportunity. We’ll see if that opportunity comes about but I’d love to put the Tongan jersey on and represent Tonga.”

Below, we look at five players who’ve already revealed they’re ready swap nations with immediate effect.

#1. Julian Savea (New Zealand to Samoa)

  • Current number of caps: 54
  • Last cap: July, 2017
  • Did you know? Savea is nicknamed “The Bus”, a moniker bestowed by under-20s coach Dave Rennie

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