The 2023 Rugby World Cup saw a wave of former All Blacks swapping nations, bringing their Kiwi experience to rival teams and reshaping the balance of power on the international stage.
With World Rugby’s eligibility rules allowing players who haven’t represented their country for three years to switch allegiances through ancestry or residency, a similar trend is expected ahead of the 2027 tournament.
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Several high-profile New Zealand-born stars could once again represent other nations, offering skill, experience, and game-changing abilities to teams outside New Zealand.
Here’s a look at some of the most notable candidates who could make an impact in 2027.
Hoskins Sotutu – Flanker / Number 8 – England or Fiji
Position: Flanker / Number 8
Height / Weight: 192 cm / 106 kg
All Blacks Caps:Â ~14
Club:Â Blues (NZ), contracted through end of 2026
Bio, Eligibility & Transfer Rumours:
Hoskins Colin Ryder Sotutu (born 12 July 1998 in Auckland) is a powerful, dynamic loose forward with a well-rounded game: ball-carrying, offloading, and breakdown work. His pedigree includes New Zealand Secondary Schools and U20 representation.
He is eligible for England via his mother, and Fiji via his father. Over the past year, Sotutu has been linked with a potential move to the Gallagher Prem, with multiple clubs reportedly monitoring his availability with Saracens currently leading the race.
Despite confirming he will stay with the Blues through 2026, the combination of transfer interest and World Rugby eligibility rules could allow him to switch nations in time for the 2027 Rugby World Cup, offering either England or Fiji a physical and skilful loose forward.
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