Kiwis an option for new Melbourne sensation
IF Stephen Kearney or Mal Meninga is reading this, you will want to get in early if you want to secure the services of Suliasi Vunivalu.
Vunivalu is the game’s most exciting finisher after topping the try-scorers’ list in his debut NRL season. The Storm sensation was born in Fiji, moved to New Zealand and now resides in Melbourne, having played his first games of rugby league in Australia.
If he fulfils the requisite residency requirements, he could qualify for the Kangaroos, Kiwis and the Bati at representative level under the current eligibility rules, although the 20-year-old hasn’t decided where to pledge his allegiance.
‘‘I can’t really say right now,’’ Vunivalu said. ‘‘Whatever country comes first, my hands are up. It might be an option, the Kangaroos or the Kiwis. I’ve got to work hard for that.’’
The news should pique the interest of Australia and New Zealand officials, who could both benefit from having such a prolific try-scorer on the end of their backline. Recent changes to eligibility rules will allow Vunivalu to represent his native Fiji when not playing for the Roos or Kiwis, but there is no movement allowed between the three top-tier nations. Because he has not resided inNSW or Queensland prior to his 13th birthday, he can’t be chosen for State of Origin.
Vunivalu is contracted to the Storm until the end of next year. The Sun-Herald