Cape Town - RFU chief executive Steve Brown says Brad Shields will tour South Africa with England in June despite New Zealand Rugby's protests.

Shields, who qualifies through his parents, will become eligible for England selection when his Super Rugby contract expires at the end of the season.

The New Zealand Rugby Union have countered that his New Zealand rugby contract takes precedence, but Brown says according to World Rugby rules, Shields will be available for England selection.

The tug-o-war, it seems, is set to continue.

"Regulation nine is clear and understood by everybody," Brown told The Times.

"If we find ourselves in that situation we will rely on the World Rugby regulation."

NZR chief executive Steve Tew, though, believes 'the World Rugby regulations don't apply per se because he's committed himself to New Zealand'.