In a surprising twist, ex-Australia head coach Eddie Jones has voiced his keen interest in witnessing England’s powerhouse player, Billy Vunipola, sport the Wallabies jersey down the line.
The experienced number 8, who was notably left out of England’s Six Nations squad, holds the eligibility to switch nations in 2026, courtesy of his birth in Sydney.
Moreover, Vunipola has the option to potentially represent Tonga, given his parental heritage.
When that milestone arrives, Vunipola will be 33 years old. Jones is steadfast in his belief that Vunipola, whom he sees as a crucial player for England, could potentially take a three-year break from international duty.
This hiatus could serve as an opportunity for him to once again return to international rugby ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
His older brother Mako’s option to switch allegiance to Tonga exists, unlike Australia, since he was born in New Zealand.
When asked about swapping nations, Mako said” “When I’m with England, I’m proud to be English, but understanding my heritage is Tongan. Whatever I can do to try and help as much as I can; not just with Tonga but the islands, I do.
“Obviously I’d love to play for them, but it’s difficult because it would be unfair to those back on the island; to see myself as an old man coming in and taking that opportunity away from them.
‘It’s a catch-22 really. You’d like to see people not being tied down to one (country) and being able to represent those countries – and they’d be better for it – but you’d also like locals to have the opportunity to make a better life for themselves by playing for their country and on the back of that getting contracts overseas.”
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Scotland have more foreign-born players than the other home nations, quadruple England
In its 25th edition since the inclusion of Italy in 2000, the 2024 Six Nations Championship is set to captivate rugby enthusiasts.
RUCK delves deep into the squads, scrutinising the foreign-born players and their places of birth.
Brace yourselves for an intriguing list that adds an extra layer of excitement to the upcoming tournament.
Wales (4) – Down by one
Archie Griffin (Australia)
Will Rowlands (England)
George North (England)
Nick Tompkins (England)
England (5) – Up by one
Ethan Roots (New Zealand)
Sam Underhill (USA)
Marcus Smith (Phillipines)
Immanuel Feyi-Waboso (Wales)
Tom Roebuck (Scotland)