5:06am, 28 November 2021The extension of World Rugby’s residency qualification rule next year from three to five years has thrown a spanner in the works for those on the verge of debuting for their new countries. As an uncapped player, Fakatava is now subject to the five year residency rule which would delay his potential capping until 2023. New Zealand’s Players’ Assocation CEO Rob Nichol is calling on World Rugby to preserve the eligibility of those who had already served the necessary three years, provided their residency status does not change. “It’s been highlighted, and it’s now up to World Rugby if they choose to fix it. World Rugby’s refreshed eligibility laws has caught the global attention of the rugby fraternity, with numerous superstars now, or soon to be, eligible for Tonga.

Source: Stuff November 28, 2021 00:21 UTC