After years of distinguished service to England, rugby stars Mako and Billy Vunipola are embarking on an exciting new chapter that could see them representing the country of their heritage. The brothers are considering wearing the Tonga jersey at the 2027 Rugby World Cup in Australia, a prospect that fills them with pride and purpose.

Mako Vunipola has officially stepped away from England duty, but his passion for rugby burns as bright as ever. The experienced prop is now exploring multiple paths forward, including a promising future in coaching. He has been shadowing Tonga's national team coaches, eager to absorb knowledge and prepare for life after his playing days.

"I was shadowing the national team coaches with Tonga. I want to get into coaching after I retire and am just trying to learn really," Mako shared with Rugby World. His enthusiasm for understanding every aspect of the game shines through as he considers his next steps, deliberately avoiding limiting himself to just one specialized role.

Yet the call to represent Tonga as a player remains strong. Speaking about the possibility of competing at the 2027 World Cup, Mako expressed genuine emotion about the opportunity. "It would be an honour to represent the country where I'm from, my heritage, my parents are from there," he said. Whether his body can withstand another year of professional rugby remains to be seen, but the dream is alive.

The prospect becomes even more special with the possibility that Billy might join him. Both brothers qualify for Tonga after concluding their England careers, meaning they could share the field representing their ancestral homeland together on rugby's grandest stage.

The 2027 Rugby World Cup promises to be bigger and better than ever, with Australia hosting 24 nations across seven cities over six spectacular weeks. World Rugby Chair Brett Robinson conducted the draw alongside rugby legends Dan Carter, James Slipper, and Olympic gold medallist Alicia Lucas, building excitement for what promises to be an unforgettable tournament.

Tonga has been drawn into Pool C alongside Argentina, Fiji, Spain, and Canada, setting up fascinating matchups that will showcase rugby's global growth and diversity.

Sunny's Take

There's something beautifully poetic about the Vunipola brothers' potential journey. After giving so much to England rugby, they're now considering honoring their parents' homeland and connecting with their roots in the most meaningful way possible. Whether Mako ultimately pulls on the Tonga jersey as a player or supports from the sidelines as a coach, his commitment to giving back to Tongan rugby demonstrates the sport's power to bridge generations and celebrate heritage. The possibility of both brothers representing Tonga together adds an extra layer of warmth to an already heartwarming story. It reminds us that sports can be about more than just competition. They're about identity, family, and honoring where we come from.