Quote: Grimmy "Interesting article, I'm glad things are progressing there far more than I had assumed. My concern is the likes of Eddie Pettybourne, who has played for Australia Schoolboys, New Zealand (in the squad but didn't play) and Samoa before moving on to the USA, will be running out instead of someone who considers themselves American. Maybe he considers himself a proud American, but I seriously doubt it, and think they are just a vehicle for him to play in the world cup.'"
Agreed mate, the worst example I always think of is Tonie Carroll. Not a fan switching (think international payments don't help this) or of residency rule myself but all for heritage players 2nd/3rd gen.
Looking at things like this the selection process for State of Origin, it really does put a spanner in the works for international RL and needs to be addressed more than it has been, you'll then get stronger national sides (Pacific nations especially), but weaker Aus/NZ short term and but would increase the market and exposure game.
International RL is key to the growth of the sport and needs nurturing more than anything else IMHO.