Update On Bundee Aki’s Ireland Eligibility

Bundee Aki looks set to become eligible for Ireland this year, even though World Rugby are likely to extend the residency rule.

The current law sees players eligible after three years, making Aki available in October, but World Rugby looks set to extend this to five years in May.

But it is understood the game’s governing body will include a cooling-off grace period before enforcing any residency rule extension, to stop players being caught in international limbo.

Aki recently signed a new three-year deal with Connacht.

World Rugby’s plans will allay fears for a host of players who could have failed to complete residency qualification were a new five-year timescale to come straight into force in May.

Aki has yet to commit himself to Ireland’s cause, but has previously revealed talks with head coach Joe Schmidt. Munster’s Tyler Bleyendaal is another player that will soon become eligible for Ireland.

[RTE]