'Still waiting for that World Cup': France-bound Sowakula gunning for 2023

France-bound All Blacks loose forward Pita Gus Sowakula still harbour hopes of featuring at next year’s Rugby World Cup.

After making his Test debut against Ireland in July, Sowakula was cast out of the New Zealand squad for the Rugby Championship and end-of-year internationals. Sowakula also missed out on selection for the All Blacks XV for their two-game tour of the United Kingdom.

Now, the Fijian-born 28-year-old has signed a two-year deal with Top 14 side Clermont Auvergne and will depart New Zealand’s shores following next year’s provincial season.

Despite the impending move overseas, however, Sowakula believes the World Cup isn’t completely out of his reach – provided he can deliver some strong performances for the Chiefs in the upcoming Super Rugby Pacific season.

“They’ve just been telling me to keep working hard and try and get back in next season and play my best footy,” Sowakula said of his Chiefs coaches at a media briefing on Tuesday.

“I’m still waiting for that World Cup.

“[I’ve got to] probably just lift up my game to another level. It’s my last season for me, just bring my A-game, that’s all.”

Sowakula also revealed that whatever had unfolded with the national side this year, the intention was always to head offshore following the 2023 World Cup, with partner Toka Natua signing with the Clermont women’s side.

“It’s mainly to take my family over and explore France, really, and see what life’s like there, that’s the main motivation, and also experience French rugby,” he said.

“I just took this [deal] because it had a women’s team, too, so we’ll play in the same team, which will be pretty cool, an experience for us.”

While some felt Sowakula was shortchanged by the All Blacks this year – featuring just twice off the bench before rapidly losing his spot in the pecking order, Sowakula stated that he didn’t harbour any frustrations with the selectors or the lack of feedback he received throughout the season, and noted that there was always the possibility of running out for his native Fiji in three years’ time.

“I think it’s all part of it, eh? Being not in the squad,” he said. “I don’t feel like I’m let down or anything. I’m fine with it.”

Sowakula will play for the Chiefs during Super Rugby Pacific then link up with Taranaki for the NPC, assuming he doesn’t make a fairytale return to the All Blacks, before heading for France late in 2023.