The hot topic of foreign-born players returned this week when England U20 stars Nick Tompkins and Billy Burns were called up by Wales and Ireland respectively.
RUCK takes an in-depth look at the foreign-born players in each of the home nations squad, where they were born and how they are eligible.
IRELAND – 7 (0% change)
Seven of Ireland’s roster are foreign-born. Of them two gained eligibility after arriving as adults on professional rugby contracts – CJ Stander, and Bundee Aki. Stander captained the Baby Boks while Billy Burns and Will Addison both played for England U20’s.
- Rob Herring – Hooker – Cape Town, South Africa – Grandparent
- Ultan Dillane – Lock – Paris, France – Parent
- CJ Stander – No.8 – George, South Africa, Residency (2016)
- Luke McGrath – Scrum-half – Ontario, Canada – Parent
- Billy Burns – Fly-half – Bath, England – Grandparent
- Bundee Aki – Centre – Auckland, New Zealand – Residency (2017)
- Will Addison – Fullback – Penrith, England – Paren
FRANCE – 4 (+33%)
With four foreign-born players France has the lowest of the rosters named from the Six Nations unions. France also has a different requirement as in order to play for Les Bleus players must carry a French passport.
- Bernard le Roux – Lock – Western Cape, South Africa – Residency (2013)
- Paul Willemse – Lock – South Africa – Residency (2018)
- Virimi Vakatawa – Winger/Centre – Rangiora, New Zealand – Residency (2013)
- Gabriel N’Gandebe – Winger – Douala, Cameroon