Wealthy England and New Zealand clubs were accused yesterday of preventing Fiji, Samoa and Tonga players from representing their countries at the World Cup.
Although International Rugby Board rules prevent clubs blocking players from representing their countries, the three tiny South Pacific nations have all been hit by the sudden withdrawal of some big names.
Fiji captain Simon Rauwalui and scrumhalf Jacob Rauluni, who both play in Britain, are unavailable while Samoa have lost their London-based hooker Trevor Leota as well as a host of players based in New Zealand.
British-based rugby league players Lesley Vainikolo and Tevita Vaikona were both forced to pull out because of their club commitments while Celtic Warriors winger Aisea Havili withdrew after a row over money.
Because the South Pacific Islands cannot afford to pay players most play professionally overseas. But problems arise whenever they ask to be released to play for their country.
Leota said he had been forced to pull out of the cup because his club Wasps had refused to pay him while he was away. "This is an absolute blight on the game and it just isn't fair, I know he'll be devastated by this," Samoa coach John Boe said.
"We've lost about four or five players from Britain but to be honest the situation is far worse in New Zealand. Almost all of our players play in New Zealand but have to sign contracts saying they won't play for us. We have no problems if any of our players who live in New Zealand are good enough to play for the All Blacks but if they're not they should be allowed to play for us."
Fiji coach Mac McCallion said Rauwalui and Rauluni had virtually been held to ransom by their British clubs. "The players are basically told, 'You don't play for Fiji'. If they go to the World Cup they don't have a contract.
"The clubs will deny it. They say it's the players' decision but these are two dedicated Fijians. They would give an arm and a leg to play at the World Cup. But what can they do? Playing for those clubs is their bread and butter."
