Athletics Australia is making a dramatic last-ditch bid to convince New Zealand-born sprint star Eddie Osei-Nketia to wear the green and gold at international level.
Nketia, 17, took down the likes of Rohan Browning and Trae Williams to claim victory in the men's 100m at the Australian championships.
Nketia spent eight years in Canberra, before moving back to Wellington last year to finish his schooling.
He is also considered an excellent rugby prospect, although the win in 10.22 seconds in the Australian 100m on Saturday night showcased his remarkable potential as a sprinter.
AA head of performance and coaching Christian Malcolm, NZ Athletics high performance boss Scott Goodman, and Nketia's coach and father Gus will meet later on Sunday to thrash out his immediate future.
Before June's Oceania championships, Nketia must decide whether he wishes to represent Australia or New Zealand at international level.
Once that call is made, he is unable to switch nationalities until he turns 20.
After finishing second behind Nketia in the 100m final, the 21-year-old Browning tweeted: "A great run by big Eddie. I hope AA are doing everything to keep him in this country."
Were Nketia to choose Australia, he would be added to an impressive 4x100m relay squad, also including Browning, Williams, Jack Hale and Jake Doran, all of whom have run under 10.20.
AAP
