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Former All Blacks centre Malakai Fekitoa is reportedly not yet ready to rule out another Rugby World Cup appearance.
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Fekitoa, a 24-Test cap All Black and World Cup winner in 2015, has just kicked off his second campaign with Top 14 side Toulon, and reportedly said he hopes he would have the chance to play a World Cup again.
“The World Cup is the pinnacle of rugby. Around the world everyone wants to participate. Obviously, I know how we feel when we play for our country and that we win, because the last time I was part of it,” Fekitoa told Rugbyrama. “But I have no regrets because I do what I love. I play rugby in another country now and it’s great to be here.”
Just 26 years old, Fekitoa will be in his early thirties after the 2019 and 2023 Rugby World Cup cycles.
Heading into his second year in France, Fekitoa said he now feels a lot more comfortable.
“I know the environment better, I feel at home in Toulon now, especially since I can speak a little more of the language,” he said.
“It was hard [last year]. I did not know anyone, there was the language barrier and the difficulties associated with moving to another country.”
Fekitoa also said he feels a lot more stable and that he was happy with his performances last season.
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“I think I had some impact on the team when I arrived and at the end of the season. As I said, I now have some stability and I am happy in my personal life. I know more people, everything is easier. It makes things easier. I think this year it’s going to be okay. I’m also looking forward to welcoming Liam [Messam] and Julian [Savea],” he said.
Savea and Messam are both former teammates of Fekitoa with the All Blacks.
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