In another blow for the New Zealand Kiwis ahead of the World Cup – the world’s best forward Jason Taumalolo has switched allegiances to play for Tonga according to The Daily Telegraph.

The Kiwis will already be without Kieran Foran, Jesse Bromwich, Kevin Proctor and Tohu Harris.

Meanwhile, fellow Kiwi Adam Blair has been officially announced as a new signing for the Warriors on a three-year deal.

“Securing Adam is critical to our quest for much-needed improvement from next year,” Warriors CEO Cameron George said.

“He’s a proven leader on and off the field who sets the kind of example we want all our players to aspire to, the epitome of the professional athlete who demands the highest of standards highlighted by an ultra-competitive attitude.”