Former All Blacks star Mark Tele’a could sensationally become eligible to represent the Springboks following his move away from New Zealand rugby.
The explosive winger, who starred for the All Blacks at the 2023 Rugby World Cup, left New Zealand to continue his career in Japan – effectively putting his international career on hold under NZ Rugby’s overseas selection policy.
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However, Tele’a could eventually have another route back into Test rugby.
The 29-year-old qualifies for South Africa through his father and has previously spoken openly about his connection to the country, describing himself as “half South African”.
Under World Rugby’s international eligibility regulations, a capped player can switch nations following a three-year stand-down, provided they meet the necessary birth or ancestry criteria.
Tele’a’s last appearance for New Zealand came against Italy in November 2024.
That means, provided he does not represent the All Blacks again, the winger could become eligible for the Springboks in November 2027 – shortly after that year’s Rugby World Cup.
Intriguingly, Tele’a has previously admitted he would be open to the possibility.
Asked about potentially representing the Springboks, he said he would consider the opportunity if they approached him and the timing was right.
It raises the extraordinary prospect of a 37-cap All Black eventually pulling on the famous green and gold.
2027 Rugby World Cup draw: England play Wales
Scroll down for the full Rugby World Cup draw.
Each of the six pools featured a team from Bands 1, 2, 3 and 4.
The confirmed Bands based on rankings were:
Band 1: South Africa, New Zealand, England, Ireland, France, Argentina
Band 2: Australia, Fiji, Scotland, Italy, Wales, Japan
Band 3: Georgia, Uruguay, Spain, USA, Chile, Tonga
Band 4: Samoa, Portugal, Romania, Hong Kong China, Zimbabwe, Canada
2027 Rugby World Cup draw:
Pool A
New Zealand – Perennial contenders with flair, power and unmatched rugby IQ.
Australia – Unpredictable but dangerous, capable of brilliance on their day.
Chile – Fast-improving newcomers bringing passion and fearless physicality.
Hong Kong China – Skillful, energetic, and eager to prove themselves on the global stage.
Pool B
South Africa – Brutal, relentless, and brutally efficient—never count them out.
Italy – Developing rapidly, mixing strong set-piece work with expanding ambition.
Georgia – Scrum specialists with raw forward strength and growing all-round polish.
Romania – Proud and powerful, known for toughness and unwavering fight.
Pool C
Argentina – Dynamic, crafty, and fiercely competitive with a never-say-die spirit.
Fiji – Magical offloads, searing pace, and unique unpredictability.
Spain – Determined climbers building consistency and confidence every year.
Canada – Physical and committed, working to regain their traditional sharpness.
