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Rugby players will be able to switch countries from January after World Rugby on Wednesday approved a landmark change to eligibility laws which will significantly bolster emerging nation squads at the 2023 World Cup.
In order to change nations a player must stand down from Tests for three years, which includes non-selection, must either be born in the country they wish to represent, or have parents or grandparents born there.
They are only allowed to make the change once in their career.
World Rugby has announced players will be able to switch countries from January in a big twist
The move means ex-New Zealander Charles Piutau (left) can now be eligible to play for Tonga
Pacific Island nations stand to gain the most from the alteration – with the likes of former All Black Charles Piutau, currently at Bristol, and ex-Australia full-back Israel Folau now able to play for their country of heritage, Tonga.
It also means, if desired, Billy and Mako Vunipola could end their careers with Tonga.
But it is not just those Polynesian nations that will benefit. The new
