Vunipola confirms nations switch for 2027 Rugby World Cup

Friday, 19 December 2025 at 09:19

byRugby Rucker

World Rugby’s eligibility reforms have created a new landscape ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Players are now permitted to make a one-time change of international allegiance, provided they have not played Test rugby for 36 months and qualify for another nation through birth, parent or grandparent.

At the same time, England’s overseas-based player policy continues to rule out selection for players contracted outside the Premiership.

With several high-profile England internationals now playing in France or abroad, the door has opened to new international possibilities.

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France-Based England Exiles

David Ribbans – Toulon

David Ribbans was born in South Africa and moved to France after the 2023 Rugby World Cup, signing with Toulon. His Top 14 contract makes him ineligible for England under current RFU rules.

With South African birth qualification, Ribbans could switch allegiance to the Springboks once the three-year stand-down period is complete, though he has expressed discomfort with the idea.

“I don’t like the concept of changing countries for convenience. I played for England and I was incredibly proud to do so.”

While the option exists, Ribbans has made clear that any decision would be carefully considered rather than opportunistic.

Billy Vunipola – Montpellier

Billy Vunipola’s move to Montpellier effectively closed the door on any England recall while the overseas policy remains in place. The former England No 8 qualifies for Tonga through his father, former Tongan international Feʻao Vunipola.

Billy has not publicly committed to switching nations but has spoken positively about his time in France and the new phase of his career.

“I’m probably in better shape than I’ve ever been and I’ve really enjoyed the challenges France has given me.”

A Tonga call-up ahead of 2027 remains a realistic possibility should he choose to pursue it.

Mako Vunipola – Internationally Retired, Tongan Heritage

Mako Vunipola retired from England duty with 79 caps and has indicated that playing in the 2027 World Cup is unlikely. However, like his brother, he qualifies for Tonga and has acknowledged discussions around contributing in some capacity.

“Obviously I’d love to represent Tonga, but it’s difficult. It wouldn’t feel right taking opportunities away from players back on the island.”

Mako has expressed a strong interest in coaching, and any involvement with Tonga is more likely to be off the field rather than as a player.

Manu Tuilagi – Bayonne

Manu Tuilagi’s move to Bayonne means he is also ineligible for England selection. Born in Samoa, the powerful centre qualifies to represent Samoa once his stand-down period is completed.

Tuilagi has openly discussed the possibility, though he has stressed that fitness and competitiveness would be decisive factors.

“It’s still a long way away. If you go to a World Cup, you want to go there to compete, not just go for the experience.”

If his body holds up, Samoa could benefit enormously from his experience in 2027.

England-Based but Switch-Eligible

Alex Lozowski – Saracens

Unlike others on this list, Alex Lozowski remains in England and is technically still eligible for national selection. However, he has not featured for England since 2018 and qualifies for Italy through an Italian grandparent.

Italy have previously shown interest in Lozowski, and under current rules he would be able to make an immediate one-time switch if he chose to pursue it. He has yet to speak publicly on whether he intends to do so.

Playing Abroad Outside Europe

Nic Dolly – Western Force

Nic Dolly earned a single England cap in 2021 before returning to Australia, where he now plays for the Western Force. His move abroad removes him from England consideration but opens the door to a new international future.

Born in Sydney, Dolly qualifies for Australia and has been clear about his ambitions.