In a move that’s sure to spark debate among rugby fans worldwide, a former All Black has made the bold decision to switch international allegiance, leaving many to wonder about the implications for both his former and new teams. But here’s where it gets even more intriguing: this shift comes hot on the heels of a significant update involving Richie Mo’unga, whose recent decisions have sent ripples through the rugby world.
Fiji has pulled off a major coup by securing the services of Pita Gus Sowakula, a former All Blacks back-rower, for their 2025 Autumn Nations Series squad. Sowakula, who last donned the black jersey in 2022, earned two caps for New Zealand before falling out of favor. Now, he’s set to bring his formidable skills to Fiji’s lineup as they embark on a challenging three-Test tour of the northern hemisphere. This tour includes high-stakes matches against England on November 9, France on November 16, and Spain on November 22. But here’s the part most people miss: Sowakula isn’t just a stopgap—he’s part of a strategic overhaul by Fiji’s head coach, Mick Byrne, who has also included two other new faces in the squad.
Among these fresh additions are props Tim Hoyt, who plays for the Worcester Warriors, and Atunaisa Sokobale, a standout from Castres. These selections underscore Fiji’s ambition to strengthen their forward pack, a move that could pay dividends against the likes of England and France. And this is where it gets controversial: while some see this as a smart recruitment strategy, others argue it highlights the challenges smaller rugby nations face in retaining their homegrown talent. What do you think? Is this a fair play or a symptom of a deeper issue in international rugby?
Fiji’s 32-player squad is brimming with confidence after their recent victory over Japan in the 2025 Pacific Nations Cup final in Salt Lake City. Notable names like Josua Tuisova, Kalaveti Ravouvou, and Viliame Mata are set to join Sowakula in what promises to be a thrilling campaign. But let’s not forget the elephant in the room: Richie Mo’unga’s decision to stay with New Zealand Rugby (NZR), despite interest from Tonga. Mo’unga, the mercurial fly-half, recently signed an 18-month deal that will see him return from Japan in 2026, just in time to compete for a spot in the All Blacks’ World Cup squad in Australia.
Mo’unga’s agent, Cameron McIntyre, confirmed that Tonga had expressed interest in securing his services for the 2026 year-end Tests, but Mo’unga remained committed to the All Blacks. This raises a thought-provoking question: Are players like Mo’unga prioritizing national loyalty over the opportunity to represent their heritage? Or is it simply a matter of chasing the highest level of competition? We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.
Here’s Fiji’s full squad for the Autumn Nations Series: Haereti Hetet, Mesake Doge, Eroni Mawi, Samuela Tawake, Tim Hoyt, Tevita Ikanivere, Zuriel Togiatama, Kavaia Tagivetaua, Isoa Nasilasila, Mesake Vocevoce, Temo Mayanvanua, Setareki Turagacoke, Lekima Tagitagivalu, Elia Canakaivata, Viliame Mata, Pita Gus Sowakula, Simione Kuruvoli, Philip Baselala, Sam Wye, Caleb Muntz, Isaiah Armstrong Ravula, Josua Tuisova, Vilimoni Botitu, Sireli Maqala, Kalaveti Ravouvou, Jiuta Wainiqolo, Selesitino Ravutaumada, Ponipate Loganimasi, Salesi Rayasi, Motikiai Murray, Iosefo Masi, Atunaisa Sokobale.
As the rugby world gears up for these exciting developments, one thing is clear: the game is evolving, and with it, the allegiances of its stars. What does this mean for the future of international rugby? Is it a step toward greater competitiveness, or does it risk diluting the identity of national teams? Let us know what you think—the debate is wide open!
