Ma'a Nonu could make shock international return aged 43

The legendary midfielder, who last played Test rugby 11 years ago when he helped the All Blacks lift the 2015 World Cup, is still going strong in France with Toulon.

Despite his age, Nonu continues to impress with his physicality, experience and skillset in the Top 14, fuelling speculation that an unlikely international return may not be entirely out of reach.

Under current World Rugby eligibility rules, players can switch nations after a stand-down period provided they qualify through birthright.

Nonu, who has Samoan heritage, would therefore be eligible to represent Samoa — a nation keen to bolster its ranks following a difficult recent qualifying campaign.

Samoa have been actively exploring options to strengthen their squad with experienced internationals, and Nonu’s leadership and pedigree could prove invaluable if he were to make the switch.

He is not the only high-profile player who could potentially change international allegiance. Several established names remain eligible for other nations:

Manu Tuilagi (Samoa)
Tuilagi remains one of the headline names. The England centre will become eligible in 2027 after completing the required stand-down period and has not ruled out representing his country of birth.

David Ribbans (South Africa)
The England lock qualifies for the Springboks through birth and could be an option as early as 2025 if he chooses to switch.

Billy Vunipola (Australia or Tonga)
A long-time England No.8, Vunipola has eligibility through both his birthplace (Australia) and Tongan heritage, offering multiple potential pathways.

Mako Vunipola (New Zealand or Tonga)
The experienced prop was born in New Zealand and is also eligible for Tonga, making him another intriguing candidate.

Hoskins Sotutu (England)
The Blues back-rower qualifies for England through family and has been linked with a potential switch despite All Blacks involvement.

Nepo Laulala (Samoa)
The 50-cap All Black tighthead becomes eligible in late 2026. Born in Samoa, he would add significant experience and power to their pack.

Shannon Frizell (Tonga)
A destructive loose forward, Frizell qualifies for Tonga and could be a major addition ahead of the tournament.

Akira Ioane (Samoa)
Still in his prime, Ioane has long been linked with Samoa and could be one of the most impactful potential switches.

Folau Fakatava (Tonga)
The exciting scrum-half is eligible for Tonga and could take on a leading role internationally if he opts to switch.

Ngani Laumape (Tonga)
Laumape has already expressed interest in representing Tonga and has been eligible since 2024.

Julian Savea (Samoa)
The All Blacks great is already eligible for Samoa and could still offer experience and finishing power.

Tyrone Green (England)
The South African-born back is on track to qualify for England through residency in 2026.

Lalakai Foketi (New Zealand)
The Australia international qualifies for New Zealand and could make a switch if opportunities arise.

Benhard Janse van Rensburg (England)
Another South African-born player impressing in England, he is eligible through residency and pushing for higher honours.

Dan Kelly (Ireland)
Already qualified via grandparents, Kelly could complete a switch from England to Ireland after his move to Munster.

Rhyno Smith (Italy)
The South African-born back has been linked with Italy, although his switch may depend on approval conditions.

Alex Lozowski (Italy)
The ex-England back qualifies for Italy through ancestry and could make an immediate impact if selected.