Dane Gagai switches allegiance from Australia to New Zealand for World Cup

Dane Gagai is now eligible to represent New Zealand after the International Rugby League approved his switch from Australia ahead of the upcoming World Cup. The Newcastle Knights centre last played for the Kangaroos in 2018 and was absent from the recent 40-man Australian squad. Recent changes to IRL eligibility rules allowed Gagai to make this transition, with support from both IRL Chair Troy Grant and Australian coach Kevin Walters. Gagai will join Knights teammate Kalyn Ponga should New Zealand select him for their roster. As he prepares for a key game on Sunday, Gagai's international future could hinge on his upcoming performances.

• 1:09 AMZero Tackle NRL — Gagai cleared for shock allegiance switch ahead of World Cup