Issac Luke for Ireland?

Late paperwork is the only thing that denied Issac Luke a place in Ireland’s World Cup squad and the hooker says he will represent the Wolfhounds in the future.

Having been left out of the Kiwis squad after a poor season, Luke put his hand up for the Irish after it was confirmed he qualifies through his grandparents.

However, the delay in paperwork put pay to his chances as Ireland coach Mark Aston revealed the 30-year-old thought he would be picked for New Zealand.

“We got a list from the NRL telling us who qualifies and Issac Luke, who qualifies through his grandparents, put his hands up,” Aston told the Irish Examiner.

“We’re a bit gutted because he didn’t get the paperwork in on time. I think he thought he’d probably play for New Zealand and by the time he came back to us the chance has gone.

“But he wants to play for Ireland one day.”

Aston also revealed that Luke’s former South Sydney teammate and current Roosters star Luke Keary would also have played for Ireland was it not for hip surgery.

Ireland kick off their World Cup campaign against Italy on October 29, before going onto play their fellow group opponents Papua New Guinea and Wales.