England legend Manu Tuilagi could play against them at 2027 Rugby World Cup
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World Rugby’s latest eligibility rules have cracked open the door for some high-profile England stars to represent a different nation—both now and in the near future.
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The revised regulations mean that players can switch Test allegiance if they haven't played international rugby for three years and have a birthright connection to their new team, either through a parent, grandparent, or their own birthplace.
While some players are more likely to take advantage of this rule than others, here are five England internationals who could make the switch.
Manu Tuilagi – Samoa calling?
In a revealing interview with The Daily Telegraph, the youngest Tuilagi brother didn't shy away from his long-term international ambitions.
"England is very special to me, of course, but my heart and home is still Samoa," he said.
“I’d love to pull on the blue jersey one day.”
Unlike his rugby-playing brothers—Anitelea, Alesana, Henry, and Freddie—who all chose to represent Samoa, Manu has been the outlier, making over 50 appearances for England. But with time ticking, the 32-year-old powerhouse could be available for Samoa at the 2027 Rugby World Cup, albeit at 35 years old.
Tuilagi, who was literally named after the Samoan national team, would be a major coup for the Pacific Islanders should he make the switch.
Rugby’s Five Richest Couples:
5. Johnny and Laura Sexton – £6m
Together since their teens, Johnny Sexton and his wife Laura are one of rugby's wealthiest couples. Known for their close-knit family, with three children often seen pitchside, the Sextons met at Rathgar Tennis Club and tied the knot in 2013. From Dublin's Saint Mary's College to University College Dublin, Johnny and Laura have been through it all. Their story, filled with love and commitment, has captivated fans just as much as Johnny's rugby career.
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