2022 Six Nations sees record 62 players swapping countries - Ruck

2022 Six Nations sees record 62 players swapping countries

The soaring number of foreign-born players in the Six Nations is a ‘joke’, ‘dangerous’ and making the competition a ‘second tier’ of international competition, according to greats of the game.

A swathe of stars, including former England captain Lewis Moody, have applauded World Rugby vice-president Agustin Pichot for his stance on the game’s residency laws, saying they must change to preserve the sport’s integrity.

ENGLAND (3 players)

PLAYERBORN INELIGIBILITY
Bevan RoddScotlandParent
Marcus SmithPhilippinesParent
Louis LynaghItalyResidency (2007)
Marcus Smith of England celebrates after winning during the Autumn Nations Match between England and South Africa at Twickenham Stadium on 20 November 2021. Photo: Tom Sandberg/PPAUK

FRANCE (4)

PLAYERBORN INELIGIBILITY
Uini AtonioNew ZealandResidency (2014)
Bernard le RouxSouth AfricaResidency (2012)
Paul WillemseSouth AfricaResidency (2018)
Virimi VakatawaNew ZealandResidency (2013)

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