Rugby’s residency rules have come under scrutiny this week.

After Agustin Pichot was elected Vice Chairman of World Rugby earlier this week, he immediately took aim at the sport’s lax residency rules, which allow players compete with adopted countries if they have resided in that country for three years.

In an interview with Sky Sports, the former Argentinian scrum half described the current set up as being ‘wrong’, and demanded that the period residency be extended to five years.

Somebody will kill me but we need to change it. I think it is wrong. It should be for life, like in football. I would understand a five-year [qualification period] and I think that will be on the agenda in the next six months.

However, while many fans will approve of Pichot’s sentiment, it is doubtful the various national unions will agree to increase the period of residency.

Indeed, only months after Ireland capped CJ Stander, former New Zealand under 20s Captain, Jake Heenan, last night declared his intention to represent his adopted nation.

Although Heenan has suffered from a number of injuries since joining Connacht in 2013, the open side has been impressive, leading some to speculate on a future Ireland call up. Speaking to Newstalk last night, Heenan told the radio station,

I’ve every intention of playing international rugby. For me, it’s about coming back in good shape, having a good pre-season and putting the performances in and hopefully put my hand up for November. I have every belief that I’m good enough and that I’m able to put in the performances needed to play [for Ireland].

Should Ireland consider capping Heenan, they will have to wait until the November internationals to do so.

Alan Drumm, Pundit Arena

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Read More About: Agustin Pichot, cj stander, connacht, irish rugby, Jake Heenan, new zealand, New Zealand under 20s, Top Story