Former Australia and Fiji rugby league international Lote Tuqiri believes the upcoming World Cup could be the most competitive yet.
The 38‑year‑old made his name in the 13‑a‑side game, winning NRL titles with the Brisbane Broncos and South Sydney Rabbitohs at both ends of his career and starring for Queensland, the Kangaroos and Fiji Bati.
The loosening of representative rules means a player with dual eligibility that misses out on selection for Australia, New Zealand or England can still play for a second tier nation at the World Cup.
Tuqiri said that has got to be good news for Pacific nations.
The Rugby League World Cup squad announcements are starting to come thick and fast.Australia revealed their line‑up yesterday, with the Papua New Guinea squad to be announced today and the Kiwis team to be revealed tomorrow.
Fiji coach Mick Potter will announce his line‑up following Saturday's Battle of the Bati trial in Suva between a local residents team and overseas-based players at 3pm at the ANZ Stadium.
Stay tuned for the latest news on our radio stations