Former Irish International Lashes Out At Bundee Aki’s ‘Puke Inducing’ Approach To International Rugby

Tony Ward has lashed out at Bundee Aki’s approach to international rugby, calling it ‘puke inducing.’

Aki becomes eligible to play for Ireland in November but is yet to declare what his international future holds, refusing to answer the question on multiple occasions.

Writing for The Independent, Ward is delighted the residency rule has been changes from three to five years, but longs for a day where it’s completely abolished from the game.

Like the rest of the civilised rugby world, I rejoice at the extension of the three-year residency rule by World Rugby to a minimum of five but I long for the day it is abolished altogether and qualification is by birthright alone.

As for Aki, his ‘who will I player?’ approach sickens Ward

Much though I admire Bundee Aki the player, I have found his ‘who will I play for?’ approach to international rugby puke-inducing.

A handy route to a green jersey should not be used as a carrot to sign a provincial contract – ever.

And with all due respect to Jared Payne, CJ Stander and others of that ilk, criticism of the madcap system that has prevailed up until now is NOT personalised criticism aimed at them.

We have benefited as much as any from the three-year rule but give me those players of Irish descent who want to come back and play for Ireland by choice.

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