Former All Blacks target Tongan jumpers

Tonga have their eye on two former All Blacks for the 2019 World Cup. Charles Piutau has indicated he wants to play for Tonga in Japan and Frank Halai is also on the radar.

Piutau is set to become the world’s highest paid rugby player after signing for English club Bristol from Irish club Ulster for a reported $1.8 million for the 2018-19 season.

The 26-year-old had 17 test caps for the All Blacks between 2013 and 2015, but was overlooked for the last World Cup squad after signing for Ulster. Tonga coach Toutai Kefu told Radio New Zealand that the former Tonga Under 20s representative was keen and would add real quality.

“I’ve spoken to him a few times and his brother as well - he’s very determined to play for Tonga so we’re very happy about that,” he said.

Kefu said Piutau will be joining a club that had the interests of Pacific Island players at heart. Former Blues coach Pat Lam had a strong Pacific influence on his playing roster.

“Pat Lam really understands our plight and understands that these Pacific Islander players are very keen to play for their country whenever possible.” Winger Halai is playing in France for Pau after transferring from Wasps. He had one test for the All Blacks in 2013.

Kefu said Halai was very interested in playing at the World Cup for Tonga.