Exiled All Black will soon be eligible to play for the Springboks

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.

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.

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

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.

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.

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.

Ireland – Well-drilled, intelligent, and ruthlessly efficient across the park.
Scotland – Creative attackers with growing confidence and slick backline play.
Uruguay – Tenacious, organized, and fearless against bigger rugby nations.
Portugal – Exciting, fast-paced, and thriving with a young, fearless core.

France – Electric, unpredictable, and capable of brilliance from anywhere.
Japan – High-tempo, disciplined, and tactically sharp—they never stop moving.
USA – Athletic and physical, with a growing pool of exciting talent.
Samoa – Bone-shaking tackles, powerful runners, and trademark island flair.

England – Structured, strategic, and capable of grinding down any opponent.
Wales – Proud, passionate, and dangerous when the momentum swings their way.
Tonga – Heavy hitters with explosive power and fearless intensity.
Zimbabwe – Energetic and ambitious, bringing speed and spirit to every contest.

From jaw-dropping tries to unforgettable moments (and yes, some questionable haircuts), these players defined a golden era of the game. If their names don’t instantly come to mind, we suggest a quick trip to YouTube to jog your memory. Trust us, it’s worth it.

Ready to test your knowledge? Let’s see if you’ve still got it. Good luck!