Richie Mo’unga – Fly‑Half / First Five – Tonga or Samoa
Position: Fly-Half / First Five
Height / Weight: ~1.78 m / ~85 kg
All Blacks Caps: 56 Tests (2017–2023)
Club Plan: Toshiba Brave Lupus (Japan), returning to NZ from July 2026 on an 18-month deal
Bio & Eligibility:
Richie Mo’unga (born 25 May 1994, Christchurch) is a world-class playmaker with excellent vision, tactical kicking, and game management.
After leaving New Zealand for Japan post-2023 World Cup, he has agreed to return on an 18-month contract starting July 2026, making him eligible for All Blacks selection from October 2026.
Through his parents, he is also eligible to represent Tonga or Samoa (mother Samoan, father Tongan) — meaning he could, in theory, represent one of those nations by 2027 if he chooses not to rejoin the All Blacks.
Mark Tele’a – Wing – South Africa or Samoa
Position: Wing
All Blacks Caps: 19 tests (debut 2022)
Club / Move: Leaves Blues end of 2025 to play in Japan, making All Blacks selection unlikely if he doesn’t return
Bio & Eligibility:
Mark Evander Tele’a (born 6 December 1996, Auckland) is a dynamic winger with a powerful running style. His father is South African and his mother is Samoan, making him eligible for South Africa or Samoa.
Because NZ Rugby generally doesn’t select overseas-based players, his move to Japan could open the door to a switch — though his most recent All Blacks cap was in 2024/2025, so timing will be key.
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