Fireworks wrote:I think the rule change will help but I still think there will be issues. There is the spirit and the letter of the law and I think that thought has already been given in how some might look to get around the spirit of the rules.
I don't think that the likes of Strauss and other project players from top 8 countries is the area where the focus should be. If the second tier countries, especially the islands, can keep their talent and get some investment it could be great for the game. It could make the WC more competitive and expand the reach of the game.
Thanks to those with the real info for the clarifications.
The SH sides were very keen on allowing players to switch back eg like of Chris Masoe with no NZ caps for a long time playing for Samoa but Celts were biggest stumbling block
Be interesting if that is revived and what criteria proposed
Islands have no pro rugby so its more about tying players IMO