Cape Town - Hurricanes
centre Willis Halaholo is open to the idea of representing Wales on
residency grounds should he be given the opportunity.
Halaholo has signed a three-year deal with Cardiff Blues and if the move turns out to be a success he would relish the chance to play for another country.
Halaholo, who was part of the Hurricanes' title-winning Super Rugby team this year, will arrive in Cardiff in November after fulfilling his duties in the Mitre 10 Cup.
The 26-year-old was one of the standout players for the Hurricanes in the 2016 season which makes his move to Cardiff a curious one. However, Halaholo has confirmed he plans to honour his three-year contract in the hope that a call-up for Wales may materialise.
“That’s something that’s on the table,” Halaholo told the Dominion Post.
“I’m looking to go there and stay for three years. If the opportunity comes (to play for Wales), playing for another country, whatever goes, I’ll go for it.”
Halaholo was a revelation alongside Matt Proctor in the Hurricanes midfield and admitted the thought of playing for New Zealand has crossed his mind.
“It was hard for me to go back to the 'Canes on a wider squad after being on a full contract the previous year. But I was willing to work hard and try to get that (starting) spot. I learned a lot from Ma’a (Nonu) and Conrad (Smith) and I didn’t want that to go to waste," he said.
“The family at the Hurricanes were very good to me and I was lucky enough to get that starting sport later in the season.”