Rugby: Waldrom to play for England?

Thomas Waldrom in action for Leicester. Photo / Getty Images

Former Wellington number eight Thomas Waldrom is the latest New Zealand born player eyeing the chance to play for England.

Waldrom, who played for both the Hurricanes and Crusaders in Super Rugby, has made an impact in Northern Hemisphere since joining the Leicester Tigers last year.

He only recently discovered he is qualified to play for England after realising that his grandmother was born in England, he told the Leicester Mercury.

The 27-year-old has already served out the required 36 months of continued residency and could join the likes of Shontayne Hape and Dylan Hartley as New Zealand born players to represent England.

"In theory, I could play tomorrow if they wanted me," said Waldrom. "I don't have to wait three years any more.

"It was good news to hear and I am available now if they decide to pick me.

"I would definitely take it if I got the nod for the World Cup.

Waldrom told the paper he would have no problems playing against the All Blacks at the World Cup.

"It would be a great honour to put the (England) shirt on," he said.

"I want to play at the top level and you can't get much higher than playing for your country.

"It would be a privilege to play against the All Blacks if the chance came along, and would be a chance for me to show them just how good I am.

"They had their reasons for not picking me, although they never told me why."

- Herald online