Newcastle Knights centre Dane Gagai will be eligible for the New Zealand Kiwis following an approval to have his allegiance swapped from Australia.
The International Rugby League confirmed his approval on Saturday morning to switch his Tier 1 allegiance ahead of the upcoming World Cup.
Recent eligibility changes in 2026 have opened the door for Gagai to make the switch.
Gagai has been in scintillating form for the Knights and enters Kiwis selection conversations in what is already a stacked international line-up across the Tasman.
After being left out of Kevin Walters' 40-man squad for the World Cup, the Australian coach has given his blessing for Gagai to represent New Zealand.
The last time Gagai played for the Kangaroos was in October 2018, eight years ago, which is a core consideration as to why he has been given the green light.
“Dane hasn't played for Australia for eight years and we didn't want him to be disadvantaged compared to other players with recent rule changes," IRL Chair Troy Grant said.
“Dane wrote to us and Peter V'landys was very supportive. He felt there should be a bit of an amnesty period because we didn't want one player disadvantaged over another, given that Dane wasn't in the Kangaroos squad and it has been so long since he has played at international level. Kevin Walter was supportive too.
“Dane didn't have the same option as other players who can play State of Origin and represent their heritage.
“It was felt that there were special circumstances in his case so Dane is now available for selection by New Zealand, and it is now up to them whether they pick him.”
He is set to link up with Knights teammate Kalyn Ponga for a deadly combination in the Kiwis' backline.
Ponga recently had his Tier 1 allegiance switched following the changes to IRL eligibility rules, which can see him both represent Kiwis and play State of Origin.
The veteran centre has represented the Maori All Stars on three occasions and will move forward with his career as his number one allegiance.
Gagai is preparing for one of the biggest games of his life on Sunday, and played a core role in the Knights' triumph over the Panthers last week to progress into the Grand Final.
