Emerging Tongan talent Kyren Taumoefolau is preparing to commit to the All Blacks as he eyes a place in the 2027 Rugby World Cup. The 21-year-old Moana Pasifika winger has made a remarkable impact in the Super Rugby Pacific this season, netting five tries in just four outings.
Although Taumoefolau is a New Zealand native, he represented Tonga during the 2023 World Cup to honour his familial roots. He will become eligible to play for the All Blacks in October next year, provided he does not play for Tonga again. “If the opportunity arose, I would seize it wholeheartedly,” he commented. “Wearing the black jersey has been my dream since childhood.”
Currently, Taumoefolau showcases his skills with Moana Pasifika, which is seen as an important pathway for players from Tonga and Samoa. Former Fiji coach Simon Raiwalui expressed his skepticism around this pathway in a social media post, highlighting the complexities it introduces to player eligibility.
All Blacks coach Scott Robertson has numerous strong options available for the wing position, but Taumoefolau is expected to be a competitive candidate. His performances have drawn comparisons to notable players, including former Tongan teammate Israel Folau. Paul Cully, in The Sydney Morning Herald, lauded Taumoefolau as one of the most gifted athletes in rugby today, following a standout game where he scored two tries and executed a spectacular overhead catch.
Taumoefolau’s agility and aerial prowess were on full display when he elegantly hurdled Hurricanes fullback Ruben Love in round five. His ability to influence play has made him a player to watch, with commentators noting how he captivates their attention during games.
Credit for his rapid development this season goes to Moana Pasifika coach Tana Umaga, whom Taumoefolau praised as the best coach he has had. “Tana has believed in me since I arrived, helping me play with confidence,” he remarked.
In the upcoming match, Taumoefolau will start on the left wing against the league-leading Chiefs on Friday in Pukekohe, where he will seek to further establish his burgeoning reputation in the rugby world.