6. Augustine Pulu
Electric scrum half Augustine Pulu is the classic example as to why World Rugby introduced the eligibility law changes. Pulu made just two All Blacks caps back in 2014, accruing a total of just 22 minutes in that year’s Autumn Internationals. Pulu came off the bench against the United States and Scotland, with the latter match seeing him clock up just one minute of match action at Murrayfield.
After falling behind a tough pecking order that included Aaron Smith, Tj Perenara and Tawera Kerr-Barlow, Pulu was left out of Steve Hansen’s squad, that went on to win the 2015 Rugby World Cup. The Tongan-born scrum half fell out of the All Blacks XV’s fold, and instead worked his way into the New Zealand Sevens squad. Pulu took home a bronze medal from the 2015/16 World Rugby Sevens Series, however, this was as far as Pulu got in the black jersey.
Pulu remained in New Zealand for three more seasons, ambitious for a return to the All Blacks squad. He worked his way into becoming the first choice scrum-half for the Blues, yet could not bring home the Super Rugby title in an era dominated by the Crusaders. Pulu then departed for pastures new, with a move to Japan solidifying in 2019. The scrum half joined up with the Hino Red Dolphins, who had only been promoted into the Top League two years prior.
Pulu still currently resides in the Tokyo Metropolis, and alongside Vaea Fifita made his Tonga debut in the 40-6 landslide win over Spain. Pulu followed this debut up with back-to-back tries in his next two matches for the Sea Eagles, as he crossed over to score against Chile and Uruguay in last Autumn’s Internationals. Pulu is a thrilling talent to watch, and deservedly has another opportunity to showcase his skills on the international stage. Ireland will have their hands full with Pulu, who will want to upset the favourites on Saturday.