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Nathan Hughes has explained why he’s chosen to represent England
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The 25-year-old revealed he has suffered some criticism from back home in Fiji
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Hughes is now in line for his Test debut during the autumn internationals
Wasps back-rower Nathan Hughes insists sacrificing a World Cup and building a new life halfway across the globe proves his commitment to England’s cause after qualifying on residency.
Hughes has revealed he suffered some criticism after opting to represent England, rejecting the opportunity to go to World Cup 2015 with Fiji.
“It wasn’t easy. People said ‘you’re not from here, why do you want to play for England, you should be playing for your own country’,” revealed Hughes.
“But at the end of the day it’s my decision and it’s my choice, who I want to play for.
“I count this as home now. England is where I’ve played for more than three years and I’m comfortable in saying this is home.
“No disrespect, Fiji is always in my heart and my family will always be there. But this is where I play my rugby, this is my bread and butter, over here.”
Hughes left Auckland for Wasps in 2013 and has detailed how seeking a fresh start in a new country on the other side of the world was not always plain-sailing.
“At the end of the day, it’s my decision,” said Hughes.
“I had chats with family and friends, talking options and things, and they’ve backed me with my decision and I’m happy to make that decision, to play for England.
“It was a long three years. To be fair when I first came to Wasps that wasn’t in my mind to play for England.
