Tameifuna’s future still unclear

Editor

Whether it's playing for the All Blacks or Tonga, or for the Chiefs or over in France, Ben Tameifuna's next move remains up in the air.

Tameifuna has become somewhat of a cult figure at the Chiefs during their recent Super Rugby success, along with catching the eye of the New Zealand coaching staff who in the past have noted his potential but wanted more from the tighthead prop in terms of mobility.

During 2015 there's been no doubting Tameifuna's athletic ability when reviewing the number of big tackles and carries he's made so far, even if he is the third-most penalised player in the competition with 13 infringements (although four of those came during some first-half scrum troubles against the Crusaders last week).

Tameifuna has been heavily linked with a move to Racing Métro but that appears to be far from a done deal, based on quotes he gave to Stuff this week.

"I'm just trying to tee up a meeting with the New Zealand union this month and I'll see what happens there – it will decide where I'm going [in my rugby career]," Tameifuna said.

"If there is the chance of an All Black jersey there then I'll take it with both arms, but if it isn't then obviously I've got to look elsewhere.

"Tonga would definitely be on the plate and, who knows, even France if I go there and hold down another three years there I could play the France card.

"Of course I want to stay. My family's here. But then again I'm so young and I want to get around and see the world.

"If I was to leave I would obviously miss home, but it's just a chance to set myself up for life."