Melbourne-based James King has been selected for the USA national squad for their upcoming tests against Italy and Russia, alongside his cousin Tony Lamborn.

New Zealand born King currently plays for the Moorabbin Rams in the Dewar Shield competition after stints with the Blues and Rebels in Super Rugby and the Yakult Levins in Japan.

Lamborn was a standout for Hawks Bay in the 2015 ITM Cup and plays for the Hurricanes in Super Rugby.

King was first selected for the Eagles last year and said he is looking forward to having his cousin along for the ride this time around.

“It’s always nice to know that you’re still wanted or you’ve still got it, and having Tony involved is obviously a highlight of it now as well.

“[Playing with Tony} would be massive for our family.”

For Lamborn, taking his chance with the Eagles meant giving up his All Blacks aspirations.

“It was definitely a hard decision.

“I didn’t see myself being an All Black in the near future. There’s a lot of good sevens in the country and you have to look at yourself and compare yourself with them.

“You have to be humble about it and realistic and make a call.”

Lamborn said his next dream is to represent the USA at the World Cup but that his focus is still on New Zealand rugby for the future.

“I see going over there making me a better rugby player. I can come back here and I bring something new to the Hurricanes or Super Rugby.

“I’ve made it clear to everyone here in New Zealand, and [Hurricanes coaches] Chris Boyd and John Plumtree that I still really want to be a Hurricane, I still really want to be a Super Rugby player.

“At the end of the day, New Zealand’s my home and it’s close to my heart.”

As for King, Keys Road Reserve in Moorabbin will remain his rugby home.

“At the end of the day, I’ve had a pretty good run. I’m pretty content with what I’ve achieved so I think it’s time for me to focus on the next chapter.”

“Everyone eventually has to hang up the boots and I’d like to say I can hang them up when I’m on top at the level I can play.”