Reports that Highlanders halfback Folau Fakatava is now eligible to play for the All Blacks

There are reports by New Zealand media that Highlanders halfback Folau Fakatava has been given the green light to be selected for the All Blacks in their series against Ireland in July.

Tongan-born Fakatava had been deemed ineligible for the All Blacks in 2022, despite having been eligible to play for them since late 2020 and throughout 2021, due to World Rugby shifting from a three-year residential period for test eligibility to a five-year period.

Fakatava’s availability increases the competition for the All Blacks’ halfback spots, with Aaron Smith, Brad Weber, TJ Perenara and Finlay Christie all used in 2021.

The Waratahs will take on the Highlanders at 3.35pm Sunday while the Fijian Drua meet the Crusaders at 7.05pm Friday.

In other matches, the Reds will take on Moana Pasifika at 9.45pm Friday, the Chiefs will play the Force at 4.35pm Saturday, the Rebels will face the Hurricanes at 7.05pm Saturday and the Blues will meet the Brumbies at 9.45pm Saturday.

[Source:Stuff.co.nz]