Six Nations: IRB to examine Steven Shingler’s eligibility for Scotland

The International Rugby Board have confirmed they will review the eligibility of Steven Shingler in the wake of the row that has broken out over his inclusion in Scotland’s squad for the RBS 6 Nations.

Scotland coach Andy Robinson yesterday named the 20-year-old in his 36-man panel for their tournament opener against England at Murrayfield, believing Shingler to be available for selection through his Dumfries-born mother.

The London Irish centre or fly-half was born in Swansea and the Welsh Rugby Union have contended that he is not eligible to play for another nation after playing full-back for Wales Under-20s against their French counterparts last year.

That appearance that would appear to tie him to Wales under IRB Regulation 8, as both sides were nominated as their respective unions’ second teams.

And with the respective unions at loggerheads the world governing body has confirmed they will look into the matter after being contacted but the WRU and the Scottish Rugby Union.

An IRB statement said: “The International Rugby Board can confirm that it has been contacted by the Scottish Rugby Union and Welsh Rugby Union regarding the eligibility status of Steven Shingler.

“It would be inappropriate to make any further comment until the matter has been fully reviewed and the Unions informed of the outcome.”