Former England Star Had Telling Response To Rumours On Ireland Switch

While producing homegrown talent remains the main priority for the IRFU, they would be amiss not to pursue Ireland eligible players born overseas.

They have certainly shown a willingness to do so. Mack Hansen is the prime example in current test setup, while Josh Neill looks likely to go down the same route after his move from South Africa last year.

Both of those players were brought to Ireland in the infancy of their careers, but it has bee suggested that a more established star was also being pursued by the IRFU in recent times.

Former England international Jack Willis becomes eligible to play for Ireland later this year. The Toulouse star qualifies via his Irish-born grandfather, with World Rugby eligibility laws allowing him to line out for another country three years after his most recent English cap.

Like Ireland, England do not select players who play their club rugby overseas.

Former England star addresses Ireland rumours

As one of the best backrow players in the sport at the moment, Jack Willis would be a sensational addition to the Ireland squad. However, his international switch would also require him to move to an Irish club.

Munster have been linked, but it seems the player would be hesitant to leave France. He recently penned a new long-term deal at Toulouse, although there have been rumours that it includes a break clause that could allow him to play at the 2027 Rugby World Cup.

Speaking on For The Love Of Rugby, Willis was asked about his international future and the prospect of playing for Ireland. His response suggested any move was unlikely as things stand.

I think I could offer more now, but when I signed this longer term contract I understood what came with that from an international perspective…

This club is an incredible club to play at and the rule is the rule. You’ve got to make peace with that…

Look, I am a quarter Irish. My grandad is fully Irish.

But if it involves moving it would sort of put me in the same situation as it would for England, it’s the same rule.

So yeah. There is always different things you can think about, but I think you would knacker yourself out if you’re always thinking about changing, moving, going here or there.

Sometimes you’ve got to accept your reality. I feel like my reality is pretty good. I’m pretty grateful for being part of this club.

Willis seems content to focus his efforts on Toulouse for now. It remains to be seen if either England or Ireland can convince Jack Willis to seriously pursue a future in international rugby over the coming years.

As one of the top players in the world right, he would be a massive addition to any side.

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