This weekend, Tonga meets Fiji in a match that would ordinarily only interest people of Pacific Island heritage.
But the new rules mean players of the calibre of Manu Vatuvei and Daniel Tupou are all coming to the party after previously representing New Zealand and Australia respectively.
And even though some of the young guns like emerging Penrith hooker Sione Katoa may now miss out, just the chance to rub shoulders with the stars is a great experience.
"Hopefully the young up and coming Tongans can see what they're doing and follow in their footsteps," Katoa told SBS News.
Tonga hooker Sione Katoa prepares to play Fiji Source: SBS
The new rules may upset some who believe you should only be allowed to play for the country of your birth, but according to Vatuvei, wearing a New Zealand jersey can't hide his roots.
"I know I've played for the Kiwis, but even though I've played for them putting that jersey on is always representing my heritage and that's Tonga," he told SBS News.
Vatuvei will play his first-ever match for Tonga against Fiji and he couldn't be more excited.
"It's going to be a really special moment for myself and my family," he said.
The World Cup runs from October 27 to December 2 and includes matches in Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea.
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