**Willis Halaholo Swaps Welsh Jersey for Tongan Colours Amid Major Rugby Developments**
Rugby fans awoke to a whirl of news today as former Wales international Willis Halaholo was announced in the Tonga squad for the upcoming Pacific Nations Cup, marking a significant switch of international allegiances. Meanwhile, debates surrounding expansion in the sport intensify, with calls for Georgia’s inclusion in the Six Nations and French rugby reeling from sanctions following violent scenes at a crucial play-off. England’s George Ford is also set to earn his 100th cap, further highlighting a remarkable week across the rugby world.
Halaholo, famed for his creative flair in midfield, became a beloved figure during his stint in Wales, notching up more than 100 appearances for Cardiff Rugby after his move to the country in 2016. He went on to win 10 caps for the Welsh national squad, with his last Test match taking place against Italy in 2022. His eligibility to switch nations comes under international rules that allow players to represent another country if they haven’t played a Test for three years and have a connection such as heritage or birthplace.
The Auckland-born star, who joined Bay of Plenty in New Zealand last year, expressed heartfelt gratitude upon his departure from Cardiff, describing his eight years in the Welsh capital as an ‘unforgettable chapter’ in both his career and his life. Halaholo cited proud memories including lifting the European Challenge Cup, making his Wales debut, and joining Cardiff’s prestigious 100-cap club. His switch to Tonga, his ancestry homeland, represents a homecoming and a new chapter as he aims to provide experience and leadership to the Pacific Islanders’ squad.
Elsewhere, the perennial debate over expanding the Six Nations has returned to prominence. Georgia head coach Richard Cockerill has reignited calls for his team’s admission to Europe’s premier rugby competition, proposing a promotion and relegation play-off involving the lowest-finishing Six Nations side. While admitting that incumbent nations might hesitate to risk their lucrative spots, Cockerill argued that such a play-off – potentially against Wales, who they famously beat in 2022 – would be “the richest game in rugby”.
Cockerill pressed the case for growth and inclusion, referencing Italy’s path into the competition and the rise of teams like Fijian Drua and Moana Pasifika in Super Rugby. He also questioned the sustainability of Georgia’s Rugby Europe dominance, noting that more meaningful fixtures and higher levels of competition are crucial for further development. While infrastructure remains a challenge, Cockerill maintains that genuine opportunities for emerging nations are vital for rugby’s global expansion.
Meanwhile, French rugby authorities have handed out significant penalties following disorder at the Pro D2 promotion play-off between Grenoble and USA Perpignan. The match, narrowly won by Perpignan 13-11 on 14 June, was marred by chaotic scenes after the final whistle, including pitch invasions and clashes between rival supporters. Both clubs have received fines of €25,000, with Grenoble ordered to play their opening home fixture next season behind closed doors. Perpignan received a suspended stadium ban in addition to the financial penalty.
Back in the northern hemisphere, the England rugby squad is celebrating a milestone as George Ford prepares to earn his 100th cap in this weekend’s Test against Argentina in Buenos Aires. The 32-year-old fly-half, who first represented England during the 2014 Six Nations, will co-captain the side along with Jamie George. Ford’s longevity and leadership are lauded by head coach Steve Borthwick, who praised his consistency and professionalism over a decade of international rugby.
Saturday’s match promises to be a test for England, who field several uncapped players due to the concurrent British and Irish Lions tour. Amongst the debutants are Seb Atkinson and Will Muir, while back-row prospect Guy Pepper could make his international entrance off the bench. Borthwick acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by Argentina, especially after their win over the Lions last month, and expressed optimism about his largely new-look team.
Looking ahead, England’s summer tour includes another Test against Argentina in San Juan on 12 July, before meeting the United States in Washington DC. The tour is seen as an opportunity for new talent to impress and for the squad to prove their depth in the absence of so many Lions representatives.
As these major storylines dominate rugby headlines, the sport continues to evolve both on and off the pitch. From high-profile player movements and disciplinary crackdowns, to persistent conversations about the future shape of elite competitions, fans and stakeholders alike are left contemplating the next step for the game at both national and international levels.