8 Apr 2014

NZ Wallaby wannabes

12:32 pm on 8 April 2014

The Western Force fullback Jayden Hayward is the latest New Zealander set to switch allegiances and aim for a Wallabies jersey.

The Taranaki-born Hayward has been a revelation for the Force since crossing the Tasman last year and highlighted his worth with a superb individual try to steal a 32-29 upset over Queensland on Saturday night.

Currently in the second year of a three-year qualifying period as a foreign development player, the converted fullback is keen to remain in Perth and play for Australia after the 2015 World Cup.

Hayward isn't the only New Zealand fullback revelling in Australia, with Melbourne Rebels import Jason Woodward already in the sights of Wallabies coach Ewen McKenzie.

Woodward's Rebels teammates from New Zealand Scott Fuglistaller and Toby Smith are also on the radar while Mike Harris has already played 10 Tests thanks to an Aussie-born grandmother.

Neither Hayward not Woodward would get a look-in past Israel Folau at number 15 but the selection landscape will be different in 2016 when a number of Wallabies head overseas.

Hayward also has versatility, gaining his first 24 Super Rugby caps as a fringe centre in the Highlanders (2009-10) and Hurricanes (2011-12) backlines.