Hoskins Sotutu has taken another major step towards a sensational England switch after already agreeing a move to Newcastle Red Bulls.
The 27-year-old former All Blacks number eight has been repeatedly overlooked by New Zealand, with his last Test appearance coming back in November 2022.
Join RUCK’s Instagram broadcast channel and get the latest rugby news straight to your phone.
Scott Robertson is no longer in charge of the All Blacks, but Sotutu’s path now appears to be heading in a very different direction after signing a three-year deal with Newcastle.
The Blues back-rower qualifies for England through his mother, while he is also eligible for Fiji through his father, former Fiji international Waisale Sotutu.
Speaking about his future, Sotutu admitted his camp had already explored the possibility of switching allegiance.
“I can’t say I had a chat [to Steve Borthwick], but my agent went to work and explored options.”
He added: “When I didn’t make the All Blacks last year, the immediate reaction was to explore and think about it.”
Under World Rugby rules, players can switch nations once after a three-year stand-down period, provided they have a close family link to the country they wish to represent.
That means Sotutu could be available to England well before the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia.
For Steve Borthwick, it would be a huge coup. Sotutu brings 14 All Blacks caps, Super Rugby pedigree and genuine X-factor at number eight.
Other players who could swap nations before the 2027 Rugby World Cup
1. Manu Tuilagi – England to Samoa
The former England centre could become eligible for Samoa before the next World Cup if he completes the stand-down period.
2. Shannon Frizell – New Zealand to Tonga
Born in Tonga, the powerful back-rower could be a massive addition if he decides to represent his country of birth.
3. Ngani Laumape – New Zealand to Tonga
The former All Blacks centre has long been linked with Tonga and would bring serious midfield power.
4. Akira Ioane – New Zealand to Samoa
Another All Black who has fallen out of the frame, Ioane could become one of the biggest names available to Samoa.
5. David Ribbans – England to South Africa
The Toulon lock was born in South Africa and could become an option if he remains outside England’s plans.
LATEST RUGBY NEWS
- EPCR confirms Champions Cup major rule changes for 2026/27 season
- Rassie Erasmus calls up Bulls star to Springboks squad for Nations Championship
- 5 Bold Predictions: Nations Championship Round 1 – Springboks hammer England in Johannesburg
- Nations Championship Explained: Everything you need to know ahead of July’s Southern Series
- Who are the 5 Uncapped Players in the Ireland squad for the Nations Championship?
