“International Rugby Crossroads: Hoskins Sotutu’s Allegiance Dilemma”
After being left out of Scott Robertson’s initial All Blacks squad, Hoskins Sotutu is now being encouraged to consider representing Fiji internationally. Despite a stellar season with the Blues, where he played a key role in their championship campaign, the 25-year-old was notably absent from Robertson’s squad announcement. Instead, Wallace Sititi of the Chiefs received his first call-up, a decision Robertson described as one of his toughest.
Sotutu, who scored a record 12 tries for a forward in Super Rugby this season, now faces the challenge of reclaiming his spot in the All Blacks. Former Fiji coach Simon Raiwalui has suggested that Sotutu switch his allegiance to Fiji, citing his eligibility through his father, Waisake, who earned 12 caps for Fiji. Under updated World Rugby eligibility rules, Sotutu could potentially represent Fiji next year, as the stand-down period has been reduced to three years, with the requirement to play an Olympic sevens qualifying tournament removed.
However, any move could be complicated by England’s selection criteria, which also require players to be contracted to a Premiership club for test eligibility. Sotutu would need to negotiate a release from his New Zealand Rugby contract, which currently extends until the end of 2026, if he were to consider a switch to England.
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