Code-switchers cleared for Tonga duty at cup

SYDNEY - Tongan New Zealanders Lesley Vainikolo and Tevita Vaikona have been cleared by English Super League club Bradford to temporarily switch codes and play at the rugby World Cup.

The two wings could line up against the All Blacks in Brisbane on October 24, although they will have limited preparation time if the Bulls make the Super League grand final on October 18.

Tongan coach Jim Love expressed a desire this month to have the New Zealand pair involved and Bradford agreed to release them once their league commitments are fulfilled.

"It's very flattering they want me," Vainikolo said.

"I haven't played rugby since I was a kid, and turning out in a World Cup will be a good opportunity for me."

The 24-year-old last played for the Kiwis at the 2000 World Cup.

Vaikona, 29, was selected for last year's tour of Britain and France, but an Achilles injury forced him out before the opening match.

The pair were named in Tonga's preliminary squad of 50 players last week, but if they make the final cut and Bradford reach the grand final, they will miss their country's opening match against Italy.

They will be available to face the All Blacks, Wales and Canada.

Vainikolo came to prominence with Canberra in the NRL.

He still hoped to add to his dozen Kiwi test caps, although coach Daniel Anderson is reluctant to bring back players based in England.

"Obviously it's hard with tests in the middle of the season," Vainikolo said, "but it just fires me up harder to try to make the next side."

Vainikolo has hinted he will try to return to the NRL when his Bradford contract ends in 2005.

"I'll be 26 when my deal runs out so I'll be in my prime when I go back to the NRL.

"Right now me and my wife are just enjoying the opportunity to travel while we're still young and before we settle down."

- NZPA