There was a strong reaction to Neil Francis calling Bundee Aki call-up 'ethically and morally wrong'

"When you are picking a player to play for Ireland, whatever else about him being good enough, the prime ingredient is whether he is Irish or not."

New Zealand-native Bundee Aki has linked up with the Ireland squad as they prepare for the Autumn Internationals this month, reopening the debate about residency rules in rugby, writes Stephen Barry.

Former Ireland international Neil Francis has voiced his opposition to the rule, which means Aki can play for Ireland after three years living in the country (although this is to be raised to five years in 2021).