Ngani Laumape eyes test rugby switch to Tonga

Former All Blacks star Ngani Laumape has gone on record saying that he intends to switch international allegiance from New Zealand to Tonga.

The prospect of Laumape turning out for the ‘Ikale Tahi has been made possible by World Rugby after the game’s global governing body voted for a law change last month that enables test-capped players to represent a second country they are eligible for through birthright following a three-year stand-down period.

The change in ruling, which comes into effect in January next year, means Laumape will become eligible for Tonga, his parents’ homeland, in 2023, provided he doesn’t make an international comeback with New Zealand before then.

Laumape says he will put his hand up for Tonga.

He adds it would be a great opportunity to represent his parents’ country if he is picked, but for now, he is focusing on his club, Stade Francais.

[Source: RugbyPass]