IRB boss: Let Russia expulsion be a lesson

International Rugby Board (IRB) boss Dr Syd Millar has said the expulsion of Russia from the Rugby World Cup, and the heavy fine meted out, over the fielding ineligible players should be a lesson to other Unions.

Millar, the acting-chairman of the International Rugby Board and the chairman of Rugby World Cup, said: "This is a serious and saddening development, especially in the run-up to the World Cup 2003."

"Unions have to go that extra mile to satisfy themselves beyond any doubt whatsoever that players are indeed eligible to play under the national flag. It is a matter of the greatest regret that Russia, a fine Union with great promise, should lose the chance of qualifying for the Finals in this way.

"This should be a lesson to others," he added.