Ex-England forward eyes Flying Fijian spot

Former England backrower Nathan Hughes has confirmed he is '100-percent serious' about playing for Fiji at this year's Rugby World Cup.

Hughes was born in Fiji, moved to New Zealand on a high school scholarship, and traveled to England where he played 22 tests.

He is now playing club rugby in Japan and last played at Number 8 for England in 2019.

Under amended rules, a player is eligible to change their allegiance after a three-year break.

Hughes, now 31, told AP he hadn't had a conversation with new Fiji head coach Simon Raiwalui about a possible move, although he had some contact with Fiji when he first changed his eligibility.

He said it would mean a lot playing for his home nation.