Former All Black scrumhalf and World Cup winner Tawera Kerr-Barlow has revealed that he wishes to represent Australia in the upcoming World Cup.
The 32-year-old scrumhalf, who currently plays for Ronan O'Gara's La Rochelle, is eligible to play for the Wallabies having been born in Melbourne.
World Rugby introduced new laws in 2021, which allow players to switch national teams once in their career, to a country which they were born in or have a parent or grandparent born there, while they must have been absent from test rugby for three years.
The 29-cap All Black last played for his country in 2017, and made the revelation of his intentions to switch countries in an interview with French publication RugbyRama.
"Unlike New Zealand, Australia have a rule allowing players who are overseas to still be eligible for selection. I am available to play for the Wallabies! I was born there and I have a lot of ties in this country and if the staff calls me I will go without hesitation. It would be a great opportunity but for the moment I am focused on La Rochelle."
Kerr-Barlow To Australia?
17 October 2015; Tawera Kerr-Barlow, New Zealand, goes over for a try. 2015 Rugby World Cup, Quarter-Final, New Zealand v France. Millennium Stadium, Cardiff, Wales. Picture credit: Stephen McCarthy / SPORTSFILE
SEE ALSO: World Rugby's New Eligibility Rules Will Mean Massive Changes For The Game
One country who have taken full advantage of the new laws is Tonga. The pacific island nation have welcomed former Ulster and All Black winger Charles Piutau into their side, as well as controversial former Australia fullback Israel Folau, and new Munster signing Malakai Fekitoa.
While these transfers were much expected, a switch from a player between two Tier 1 nations would be a fascinating scenario.
SEE ALSO: Munster VS South Africa Select XV Confirmed For Páirc Uí Chaoimh
