Tuigamala earns citizenship

Va'aiga Tuigamala is now a British citizen.

Newcastle have been handed a major boost with the news that Va'aiga Tuigamala is now a British citizen.

The Falcons have had to select two from three of their overseas players Marius Hurter, John Leslie and Tuigamala since Leslie's arrival at Kingston Park in March.

But Tuigamala, who has lived in Britain for six years, has had his application for citizenship granted and the former All Black and Wigan rugby league star is now no longer classed as an overseas player.

Newcastle will be able to name Hurter, Leslie and Tuigamala in their line-up against London Irish next Tuesday and Bristol the following Saturday, provided Scotland captain Leslie is fit, although that remains doubtful.

Leslie broke down with a recurrence of ankle trouble again while playing for Scotland, and Newcastle are set to rest him for the rest of the season to ensure he makes a full recovery.