Nathan Hughes

Hughes was born in Fiji, moved to New Zealand on a high school scholarship, and traveled to England where he played 22 tests.

He is now playing club rugby in Japan and last played at Number 8 for England in 2019.

Under amended rules, a player is eligible to change their allegiance after a three-year break.

Hughes, now 31, told AP he hadn't had a conversation with new Fiji head coach Simon Raiwalui about a possible move, although he had some contact with Fiji when he first changed his eligibility.

He said it would mean a lot playing for his home nation.

Under the new World Rugby rules, Hughes can wear the Fijian jersey.

But Fiji Rugby Union chief executive John O'Connor said the final decision is with Flying Fijians' coach Vern Cotter.

Following a dismal 2021 international season, Cotter could have an influx of new players heading into the 2023 Rugby World Cup in France.

Hughes joins several other players vying for a spot in Cotter's side including former All Blacks Seta Tamanivalu and Waisake Naholo, and Wallaby Tevita Kuridrani.

Hughes could come back into the side at number eight at Murrayfield in the absence of Sam Simmonds, who will miss the next two rounds with a shoulder injury.

Wasps forward Hughes has been sidelined for six weeks, but came through a demanding training camp last week.

Head coach Eddie Jones has also named prop Joe Marler and backrow forward James Haskell in a 29-man group for the Calcutta Cup showdown after the duo served suspensions.

Versatile back Daly scored twice in a 21-3 Champions Cup win over La Rochelle last weekend, but was forced off in the second half, while Hughes and fly-half Jimmy Gopperth were also injured in the contest.

All three men were sent for scans this week but none of the trio will require surgery.

Daly, though, is expected to miss between 10 and 12 weeks of action, while Hughes is due to be sidelined for between eight and 10 weeks.

England begin the defence of their Six Nations title with a trip to Italy on February 4 before welcoming Wales to Twickenham six days later.