Former All Blacks star arrives in England ahead of international switch
Rugby NewsWednesday, 29 July 2026 at 08:05
Former All Blacks forward Hoskins Sotutu has officially arrived in England ahead of the new Prem season, with his move to Newcastle Red Bulls reigniting speculation over which nation he could represent next at Test level.
The 26-year-old back-rower shared his arrival on social media after travelling to the UK, having also been spotted in the crowd for Scotland's recent Nations Championship clash with Fiji.
New challenge in England
Sotutu joins Newcastle after establishing himself as one of Super Rugby's standout No. 8s during his time with the Blues.
A powerful ball carrier with excellent handling skills, he won 14 caps for the All Blacks between 2020 and 2022, scoring six tries in the famous black jersey.
His arrival is a major statement of intent from Newcastle, who will hope the former All Black can help lift the club up the table following a difficult campaign.
England or Fiji?
While Sotutu's immediate focus will be on making an impact for Newcastle, attention is already turning to his international future.
Having not represented New Zealand since 2022, he is now eligible to change his international allegiance under World Rugby's birthright transfer regulations.
The former All Black qualifies for England through his English mother, while his Fijian heritage also makes him eligible to represent Fiji.
His appearance at Scotland's recent fixture against Fiji has only added to the intrigue, with many fans speculating over which nation could tempt him back into Test rugby before the 2027 Rugby World Cup.
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Test return on the horizon?
Neither England nor Fiji has publicly indicated an interest in selecting Sotutu, and the player has remained tight-lipped over where his international future lies.
For now, Newcastle supporters will simply be excited to see one of the southern hemisphere's most talented forwards pull on the club's colours.
If he rediscovers the form that earned him All Blacks honours, it may not be long before another Test call comes his way.
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FOUR OTHER ALL BLACKS SWAPPING NATIONS
Several high-profile New Zealand-born stars could once again represent other nations, offering skill, experience, and game-changing abilities to teams outside New Zealand.
Here’s a look at some of the most notable candidates who could make an impact in 2027.
Richie Mo’unga – Fly‑Half / First Five – Tonga or Samoa
- Position: Fly-Half / First Five
- Height / Weight: ~1.78 m / ~85 kg
- All Blacks Caps: 56 Tests (2017–2023)
- Club Plan: Toshiba Brave Lupus (Japan), returning to NZ from July 2026 on an 18-month deal
Bio & Eligibility:
Richie Mo’unga (born 25 May 1994, Christchurch) is a world-class playmaker with excellent vision, tactical kicking, and game management.
Richie Mo’unga (born 25 May 1994, Christchurch) is a world-class playmaker with excellent vision, tactical kicking, and game management.
After leaving New Zealand for Japan post-2023 World Cup, he has agreed to return on an 18-month contract starting July 2026, making him eligible for All Blacks selection from October 2026.
Through his parents, he is also eligible to represent Tonga or Samoa (mother Samoan, father Tongan) — meaning he could, in theory, represent one of those nations by 2027 if he chooses not to rejoin the All Blacks.
Mark Tele’a – Wing – South Africa or Samoa
- Position: Wing
- All Blacks Caps: 19 tests (debut 2022)
- Club / Move: Leaves Blues end of 2025 to play in Japan, making All Blacks selection unlikely if he doesn’t return
Bio & Eligibility:
Mark Evander Tele’a (born 6 December 1996, Auckland) is a dynamic winger with a powerful running style. His father is South African and his mother is Samoan, making him eligible for South Africa or Samoa.
Mark Evander Tele’a (born 6 December 1996, Auckland) is a dynamic winger with a powerful running style. His father is South African and his mother is Samoan, making him eligible for South Africa or Samoa.
Because NZ Rugby generally doesn’t select overseas-based players, his move to Japan could open the door to a switch — though his most recent All Blacks cap was in 2024/2025, so timing will be key.
Aidan Ross – Prop – Australia
- Position: Loosehead Prop
- Height / Weight: 189 cm / 111 kg
- All Blacks Caps: 1 Test (vs Ireland, 2022)
- Current Club: Queensland Reds from July 2025
- Wallabies Caps: 2 (as of 2025)
Bio & Eligibility:
Aidan Ross was born in Gosford, NSW, Australia, but moved to New Zealand as a child. After his All Blacks debut in 2022, he is now eligible for Australia having completed the three-year stand-down. In 2025, he made his Wallabies debut, crossing the Tasman for a second time in his international career.
Aidan Ross was born in Gosford, NSW, Australia, but moved to New Zealand as a child. After his All Blacks debut in 2022, he is now eligible for Australia having completed the three-year stand-down. In 2025, he made his Wallabies debut, crossing the Tasman for a second time in his international career.
Ross brings scrummaging power and front-row experience, strengthening Australia’s pack with his Kiwi-honed skills.
Gus (Pita Gus) Sowakula – Flanker / Number 8 – Fiji
- Position: Flanker / Number 8
- Height / Weight: 195 cm / 110 kg
- All Blacks Caps: 2 (2022)
- Current Club: Clermont (France)
- Fiji Caps: Debuted for Fiji in 2025
Bio & Eligibility:
Pita Gus Nacagilevu Sowakula (born 26 October 1994, Lautoka, Fiji) played for New Zealand (All Blacks) in 2022, earning two caps. After standing down, he made his debut for Fiji in 2025.
Pita Gus Nacagilevu Sowakula (born 26 October 1994, Lautoka, Fiji) played for New Zealand (All Blacks) in 2022, earning two caps. After standing down, he made his debut for Fiji in 2025.
Known for his powerful carries, breakdown strength, and versatility in the back row, he adds both international experience and physicality to the Fijian pack.
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