LEINSTER legend and once-capped Fiji international Isa Nacewa is backing “world class” Wales to be a major force in the autumn’s World Cup.

The world class utility back sank Wales on the weekend when his second try won the match for the Barbarians with the last play of the game.

And the New Zealand-born Nacewa could face Wales again in September in the tournament’s group stages if he decides he wants to be considered for selection by Fiji It promises to be a tasty showdown, especially in light of 2007’s remarkable match which saw Fiji dump Wales out of the competition.

But the 28-year-old Nacewa thinks Warren Gatland’s men will be a force to be reckoned with this time around.

And the two-times Heineken Cup winner with Leinster also thinks Fiji could muster a formidable side in New Zealand.

Speaking about the Baa-Baas’ 31-28 defeat of Wales, Nacewa, who can play full back, wing, centre and outside-half, said: “Fair play to Wales, they could have put us away if they had had more time together.

“They will be world class once they get all their players back.”

He added: “All the groups at the World Cup are tough but you look at the one Wales are in and it is particularly hard. It's a big ask but they will have some great players back.”

Fiji’s participation in the World Cup is under threat however with the head of their Olympic Committee, Vidhya Lakhan, wanting the South Pacific nation to boycott the tournament if sanctions imposed by New Zealand prevent it from selecting its best team.

New Zealand has imposed travel sanctions on Fiji since the nation’s military, under Commodore Frank Bainimarama, seized power in a December 2006 coup.

These restrictions prevent members of the Fiji military or their families from visiting New Zealand.

On being asked if he thought Fiji would play, Nacewa said: “I haven't thought about any of that.

“It’s something that’s happening behind the scenes. We don’t really know what's going on.”

If Fiji do go, will Nacewa be there? "I'll tell you now I haven't decided,” he replied.

"It’s been a long season you know and a great one too so I'd quite like it to go on and a good one with the Heineken Cup win and now the Barbarians.

“I have to go back and talk to the wife and make a few decisions.

“You look at all the Fijian players across France and Europe.

“If they can get them all together and get a bit of continuity into the World Cup they will have a really strong squad.”