Scott Robertson gives blunt verdict on new Chiefs and ex-Tonga flyer’s All Blacks ambitions
All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson (inset) and new Chiefs wing Kyren Taumoefolau.
New Zealand head coach Scott Robertson has revealed that he has no problem with new Chiefs flyer Kyren Taumoefolau’s intentions to play for the All Blacks when he becomes eligible.
It was announced on Monday that Taumoefolau will further his career at the Chiefs after he signed a two-year contract with the Hamilton-based outfit until 2026.
The 22-year-old has made five Test appearances for Tonga and represented them at the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France and joins the Chiefs from Moana Pasifika where he made 21 appearances and scored 12 tries.
Earlier this year, Taumoefolau revealed his intentions to play for the All Blacks but for that to happen he will not have to play any Test rugby for another nation for a three-year period, according to World Rugby regulations.
He seems willing to bide his time which means he will become eligible to represent New Zealand in the international arena in October next year as his last game for Tonga was against Romania during the pool stage of the 2023 Rugby World Cup.
During his All Blacks squad announcement for the Rugby Championship, Robertson was asked about Taumoefolau making his intentions to play for the All Blacks clear and said: “Anyone that’s eligible is in the picture.
“You know, it’s great that he has a desire to come and play for the All Blacks.
“It’s just a little bit of time now, isn’t it, for him? But keep his performance and whatever team he’s playing for, play well.”
Taumoefolau, who is blessed with plenty of pace and great footwork, is excited about his move to the Chiefs.
“I’ve loved my journey so far and I’m really proud of what I’ve been able to achieve with Moana Pasifika,” he said.
“When it came time to make a decision about what’s next, I took a lot of time to think about what was right for me and my whānau. Joining the Gallagher Chiefs felt like the best option to keep growing and developing as a player.
“I’m excited for the next challenge and grateful for the opportunity to be part of a team and culture that I really believe in.”
Incoming Chiefs head coach Jono Gibbes said the team is looking forward to working with Taumoefolau.
“We know that he had plenty of options both in New Zealand and abroad, so to get the opportunity to continue to grow and develop his game in the next phase of his career is very exciting for us,” he said.
“It’s a responsibility that we take very seriously.
“Kyren is a player with immense potential, and he embodies many of the values we stand for. We know he’ll thrive in the Chiefs Rugby environment, both on and off the field.”
READ MORE: Scott Robertson opens up on shock decision to select ‘intimidating’ rookie in All Blacks squad
