Rugby League expands heritage eligibility to great-grandparents
The International Rugby League let players use great-grandparent heritage. This helps Pacific nations keep their players.
The International Rugby League board approved a new rule. Players can now use great-grandparent heritage when picking their national team.
Before, they could only use parents and grandparents. Cook Islands coach Karmichael Hunt asked for this change.
He feared his nation would lose players to Australia and New Zealand. Cook Islands' population fell from over 20,000 in the 1970s to below 14,000 today.
Canberra fullback Kaeo Weekes has Cook Islands heritage. Nations like Tonga, Samoa, Lebanon, Ireland and Italy also benefit.
They can now reach their diaspora players. Kiwis legend Shaun Johnson supports the move.
He says a stronger world competition helps the sport grow.
- Below 14,000
- Cook Islands population now
- Over 20,000
- Cook Islands population in 1970s
- Karmichael Hunt
- Cook Islands coach
- Kaeo Weekes
- Canberra player with heritage
Why it mattersA bigger player pool helps Pacific nations. International tournaments become more competitive and exciting.
AustraliaAustralian and New Zealand players with broader heritage can now represent Pacific island teams, and the rule strengthens the international Rugby League World Cup hosted in Hawaii and Utah in 2030.
