World Rugby is reviewing its Test eligibility rules which allow players to play for the country in which they are resident, provided they haven't played for their home nation at test level or 'A' level.
Club rugby in Europe is packed with players from the southern hemisphere who have eschewed an international career in their native country for the lucrative opportunities on offer north of the equator.
At present, if a player who has not previously played international rugby beyond the underage ranks can qualify to play for his country of residence once he has lived there for three years.
Munster's CJ Stander, who previously captained the Springboks at U20's level, has declared his intention to play for Ireland, if selected, once he becomes eligible in October.
Richardt Strauss and, much to the displeasure of George Hook, Jared Payne already represent Ireland on that basis.
World Rugby's Australian chief, Brett Gosper, who last month wound up Welsh rugby fans, said the sheer number of southern hemisphere players operating in the Europe has made them look at the rule again.
When that [the residency rule] was determined, I don’t think there was quite the flow of players in international movement that it’s become in recent years, through Europe and Japan, and so on.
You want to preserve the specialness of the international game and therefore while club sides are gathering all-stars from around the world, and top international players, I think there is a feeling that there has to be some steps taken to ensure that the profile of the national team has that integrity.
Stander and others should relax as any alteration to the status quo will require a vote by the World Rugby council.
