Tongan coach Kefu slams 'ridiculous' World Rugby waiting period

Tonga head coach Toutai Kefu said on Friday the waiting period for a player to feature for two different countries is "ridiculous".

World Rugby regulations stipulate an individual must wait three years before they can represent a second nation for which they are eligible.

During this World Cup, Kefu has benefitted from the rule with the likes of former New Zealand centre Malakai Fekitoa and ex-Australia lock Adam Coleman playing for Tonga.

"I think if we're talking about people coming back to play for Tonga, if they're Tongan, parents are Tongan, I don't think they should have to wait three years," former Australia back-rower Kefu told reporters ahead of Sunday's final Pool B match with Romania.

"It's ridiculous I think," he added.

Another example of a player changing a team is former All Blacks centre George Moala.

Moala is one of six changes made by Kefu for Sunday's dead rubber final Pool B game in Lille as he replaces Fekitoa.

Clermont's Moala, 32, returns after a five-match ban for a dangerous tackle he made in a match against Canada in August.

The Tonga XV facing Romania in their last #RWC2023 match 🇹🇴#TGAvROU pic.twitter.com/U9niqmctpI

— Rugby World Cup (@rugbyworldcup) October 6, 2023

"We've had him in the squad since the start," Kefu said.

"He's raring to go.

"Malakai has been enormous for us," added the 49-year-old, who was a pivotal member of the Australia side that won the 1999 World Cup.

LOOKING FOR FIRST WIN

Flanker Sione Talitui keeps his place having made a tournament-leading 60 tackles in three matches.

The 25-year-old is set to join Moana Pasifika next season after helping the Crusaders to three Super Rugby titles.

"I've always been impressed by him, he's an outstanding player and individual," Kefu said.

"He probably should be in the All Blacks squad.

"We're very lucky to have him and I'm glad he's playing for Tonga," he added.

Kefu's side are looking for their first win of the tournament after heavy defeats to Ireland, Scotland and holders South Africa as are Romania.

"They're in the same shoes we are," Kefu said.

"They play the top three teams first like us.

"If there was a team for them to target, this is the game.

"It's not going to be easy but I think if we can bring the same energy and aggression and commitment than we did for the last couple of games we should get a good result," he added.

Tonga (15-1)

Charles Piutau; Solomone Kata, George Moala, Pita Ahki, Afusipa Taumoepeau; William Havili, Sonatane Takulua (capt); Sione Vailanu, Sione Talitui, Semisi Paea; Adam Coleman, Halaleva Fifita; Ben Tameifuna, Paula Ngauamo, Siegfried Fisi'ihoi

Replacements: Sione Anga'aelangi, Paula Latu, Siate Tokolahi, Sitiveni Mafi, Penitoa Finau, Manusiu Paea, Patrick Pellegrini, Kyren Taumoefolau

Head coach: Toutai Kefu (TGA)