ARU to allow foreign players to line out in Super 14

The Australian Rugby Union has confirmed that foreign players could be allowed to play for Australian Super 14 franchises from as early as next year.

The ARU has agreed to allow Wallabies playing abroad to be selected for their country and, also, consider importing foreign players.

"The ARU board are awaiting final details of the "foreign player policy", which is being developed in consultation with the Super 14 member unions, the Rugby Union Players' Association and Wallabies coach Robbie Deans," stated the ARU.

"It was agreed the time is right to make this change," said ARU chairman Peter McGrath.

"We are moving towards transformation at Super Rugby level and allowing foreign players to be involved with our teams -not for the first time - is part of that evolutionary process".