A historic programme of reform of rugby’s international eligibility regulation has been approved by the World RugbyCouncil after a special meeting in Japan.
The World Rugby Council made a decision to scrap the three year qualification period in favour of a more stringent five year qualifying process.
This new change is intended to protect the more economically vulnerable Pacific Island nations and will bring to an end the practice of players brought overseas to play for rugby clubs and for the nation of their current residency.
Two recent examples would be Fijian No.8 playing for the Wasps Nathan Hughes who qualified for England last season and Sale Sharks wing, Denny Solomona, who has been picked for England’s tour of South Africa only a matter of weeks after qualifying on the three year ruling.
France has been one of those at the forefront pressing for change led by new federation president, Bernard Laporte, who has grave concerns about the number of overseas players in the Top 14 domestic league, several of whom have come through to become eligible for the national side.
The France‑Australia game last November saw all four wings berths occupied by Fijian players.
World Rugby Vice‑Chairman, Agustin Pichot has been the driving force in setting up the proposals which he believes was essential to safeguard the integrity of international competition.
The new initiative will come into force when the global calendar is re‑structured in 2020.
Pichot adds that this is an historic moment for the sport and a great step towards protecting the integrity of international rugby.
