Pakistan, Oct. 4 -- Castres' Australian lock Tom Staniforth said Racing 92 centre Joey Manu has a chance of featuring for New Zealand at the 2027 Rugby World Cup before they meet each other in the French Top 14 on Saturday.

Manu joined Racing and their big-name backline including Gael Fickou and Josua Tuisova this summer after originally switching from rugby league to union with Japan's Toyota Verblitz in 2024.

The 29-year-old from Hamilton had spent eight years in the NRL, winning the Premiership twice with Staniforth's beloved Sydney Roosters and has looked comfortable in western Paris so far this campaign.

"He's been a freak for the Roosters for 10 years or so," Staniforth said. "He's got some phenomenal players up there to learn fr...