New Zealand-born Riki Flutey set to shine for England

By Gary Fitzgerald 6/07/2008

England rugby fans (Getty Images)

Riki Flutey will hit all the right notes for his adopted country - and show that New Zealand-born stars can shine for England! Martin Johnson believes the skilful, toughtackling Wasps centre will be a big success as part of his new squad.

Fellow Kiwi-born wing Lesley Vainikolo was dumped after failing in this year's Six Nations, but Flutey is earmarked to take on the All Blacks who visit Twickenham in the autumn.

The 28-year-old was a member of the All Blacks junior team that won the Under-19 World Cup in 1999. He has also played for the New Zealand Maoris.

Flutey moved to England to play for London Irish at the end of 2004 and then moved to Wasps where he was named the 2008 Rugby Players' Association Player of the Year.

He now qualifies for England, having lived here for more than three years, and Johnson said: "Riki wants to go and do it for England.

"I have no doubts about him whatsoever. He's a very good player and has set his heart on winning international honours. He has also just had an outstanding season for Wasps.

"I had no hesitation in picking him and I think he will be a very good addition to the squad. He has very good defensive and attacking qualities."