Former England international Nathan Hughes is set to make his return to international rugby in a different national jersey after being named in Fiji’s starting XV for their Nations Championship encounter against France on Saturday, November 7, 2026.
The 35-year-old number eight will make his debut for the Flying Fijians in Lyon after head coach Jake White selected him to start in the back row, marking a significant change in his international career after previously representing England.
Hughes earned 22 caps for England between 2016 and 2019, having established himself as one of the country's options at number eight. His final appearance came on March 16, 2019, when England played out a 38-38 draw against Scotland in the Six Nations Championship at Twickenham.
Born in Fiji, Hughes is now eligible to represent his country of birth under World Rugby's revised Regulation 8, which allows players to switch international allegiance after a three-year stand-down period, provided they meet the required birthright conditions and obtain approval.
His return comes after being included in Fiji’s extended squad for the November Nations Championship fixtures, with White handing him a starting role for the meeting against France.
Hughes will line up at number eight alongside Pita-Gus Sowakula and Kitione Salawa, forming a back-row combination expected to provide Fiji with considerable physical presence against the French.
Captain Tevita Ikanivere will lead the side from hooker, with Eroni Mawi and Luke Tagi completing the front row. Mesake Vocevoce and Isoa Nasilasila have been selected as the second-row pairing.
In the backline, Simione Kuruvoli will partner Isikeli Rabitu, while Vinaya Habosi and Iosefo Masi will feature in midfield. Jiuta Wainiqolo and Selestino Ravutaumada have been named on the wings, with Salesi Rayasi completing the starting XV at fullback.
The selection is also part of White's wider reshaping of the side as he continues to establish his approach following his appointment as Fiji head coach. The match against France will be his second game in charge after Fiji opened their campaign with a 34-28 victory over Japan.
Hughes' return also comes as he continues his club career in France with Racing 92, where his performances have kept him in contention for international selection.
Fiji face a demanding run of fixtures during the November window, with Ireland awaiting them in Dublin on November 14 before they travel to Udine to take on Italy the following week.
For Hughes, the France encounter represents the culmination of a lengthy wait to return to Test rugby and an opportunity to begin a new international chapter with Fiji, the country where his rugby journey began.
