# Rugby player international eligibility considerations

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/rugby-player-international-eligibility-considerations
> Updated: 2026-10-22T10:14:00.000Z. Sources: 7. Developments: 2.

Professional rugby players are evaluating their international eligibility and positional roles in anticipation of the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Manu Tuilagi, a center for Bayonne, has not ruled out representing Samoa following his previous 60 matches for England. In Australia, rugby legend Tim Horan has advocated for Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii to gain more experience on the wing to prepare for the tournament.

Other players are navigating similar transitions. Mark Nawaqanitawase, moving from rugby league to rugby union with the Saitama Wild Knights in Japan, is considering whether to represent Australia, Fiji, or Italy. Additionally, Keaon Koloamatangi has expressed his intent to represent Australia, despite having previously played for Tonga in the 2022 World Cup.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-22: Rugby players weigh international eligibility for upcoming World Cup

Rugby players Mark Nawaqanitawase and Keaon Koloamatangi are navigating international eligibility choices for the upcoming World Cup.

6 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/rugby-players-weigh-international-eligibility-for-upcoming-world-cup

### 2026-10-02: Rugby players face potential shifts ahead of 2027 World Cup

Rugby figures Manu Tuilagi and Joseph-Aukuso Suaalii face potential shifts in nationality and position ahead of the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/rugby-players-face-potential-shifts-ahead-of-2027-world-cup

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Cite as: Rugby player international eligibility considerations. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/rugby-player-international-eligibility-considerations