Fans are once again debating the eligibility rules of international rugby league after Knights centre Dane Gagai made the stunning call to switch allegiances from Australia to New Zealand ahead of the World Cup. Only one day out from the NRL grand final where the Knights will take on the Roosters, the veteran centre has been given permission to switch allegiances to New Zealand.
Some nations are expected to announce their World Cup squads on Monday with Gagai last featuring for the Kangaroos back in 2018. Gagai played seven games for the Kangaroos, but has also represented the Maori All Stars.
While International Rugby League (IRL) initially rejected the move, it was pushed through on Saturday. His switch comes as a major boost for New Zealand coach Stacey Jones ahead of the World Cup with the nation light on centres. Penrith Panthers star Casey McLean will likely be selected as one centre, but the other role is open.
Jojo Fifita and Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad could be an option. Although the Knights star could slot right in now he is eligible. While Jones hasn’t announced the team, it’s unlikely Gagai would have made the move unless he had spoken to Jones.
Tonie Carroll is another player to represent both nations in rugby league. And the move has once again raised the debate around whether players should be allowed to switch international allegiances.
Eligibility debate erupts after Dane Gagai move
Last year, AJ Brimson switched from Australia to England ahead of the Ashes series. Although Brimson had never represented Australia in rugby league, but played for the nation in the Rugby League World Cup 9s event in 2019.
Payne Haas announced he would play for Samoa last year, despite representing Australia. A number of other high-profile players have also been dragged into the debate. Robert Toia is currently yet to announce his decision ahead of the World Cup on whether he will play for Tonga or Australia. Toia represented Tonga last year.
Dane Gagai (pictured) represented Australia at the 2017 World Cup. (Photo by Cameron Spencer/Getty Images)
Often players are switching allegiances from a tier-one nation – Australia, New Zealand or England – to a tier-two rugby league nation The switch between two tier-one nations has raised eyebrows.
The decision will help grow the international game as competition strengthens. New Zealand are putting together a formidable team for this World Cup. However, others feel the integrity of the international jersey is weakened when players can so easily switch.
IRL addresses Dane Gagai move
In a statement from International Rugby League, the body confirmed both Peter V’landys and Kangaroos coach Kevin Walters supported Gagai’s application after it was initially rejected.
“Dane hasn’t played for Australia for eight years and we didn’t want him to be disadvantaged compared to other players with recent rule changes,” IRL boss Tony Grant said. “Dane wrote to us and Peter V’landys was very supportive.He felt there should be a bit of an amnesty period because we didn’t want one player disadvantaged over another, given that Dane wasn’t in the Kangaroos squad and it has been so long since he has played at international level. Kevin Walters was supportive too.
“Dane didn’t have the same option as other players who can play State of Origin and represent their heritage. It was felt that there were special circumstances in his case, so Dane is now available for selection by New Zealand. It is now up to them whether they pick him.”