Residency qualification period in rugby league extended to five years

Overseas players wanting to play rugby league for another country face a longer wait following changes to residency rules.

The International Federation (RLIF) board extended the qualification period from three to five years in a meeting when it also drew up a shortlist of two applicants to host the 2021 World Cup.

The residency ruling has been a bone of contention since New Zealand-born Rangi Chase switched his allegiance to England in 2011, after spending three years with Castleford, and went on to play in the 2013 World Cup.

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Federation officials say they have now extended the qualification period to five years while ensuring players from developing nations retain dual-eligibility.

The changes take effect from October 1 in time for the 2016 Four Nations Series, and will mean that Castleford's Auckland-born winger Denny Solomona, who has been in England since the start of 2014, would have to wait another two years to qualify for England.

He can represent Samoa, a second-tier nation, if he is overlooked by New Zealand.

RLIF chairman Nigel Wood said: "Following the presentation of an initial review by the RLIF chief executive officer and secretary, we have consulted extensively with our members and made these changes not only in time for the 2017 World Cup but also for the international matches leading into our flagship event.

"This provides maximum preparation time for nations, their players and coaches, and enhances the quality and competitiveness of our global events."