Getting a little worried about the amount of Fijians we are picking up and qualifying and the 3 year residency rule.
Guys like Kuridrani and Kerevi moved here as children and not for rugby so I'm happy for these, but it's guys like Naiyaravoro, Nabuli and Koroibete
I know League actually brought them over (Nabuli & Koroibete) while Naiyaravoro got picked up by NZ first, but at least they usually play for FIJI still as a nation whilst working in AUS.
Part of me wishes thatwe had a Pacific Islander Marque player allowance, as we do have a separate one for Japan, so that they don't feel that their options are
A) Work in Europe & Play for FIJI
B) Work in AUS & Play for AUS
Clearly it also involves a heavy financial issue, as our Japanese players are really here to up their skills, whilst they earn the paypacket for their Top League teams.
Would be nice if they had the option to work in AUS and Play for FIJI. Let's use Naivalu for an example. He becomes eligible in a couple weeks and will play for AUS.
I suggest that Australia (league and union) is the biggest threat to the future of Fijian Rugby.
Just need a billionaire to come along and be like, hey Fiji guys, if you wanna keep playing in Aus but represent Fiji like you do in league, then here is some extra cash to support you as a Marque Player so you don't have to feel as though you are giving it up a) representing fiji or b) leaving australia, for money
Not really a question or a solution here, just a general rant.