Jean Kleyn cleared to represent South Africa in Rugby World Cup

Former Ireland lock Jean Kleyn can dream of playing in his second successive Rugby World Cup after he was cleared to play for the country of his birth, defending champions South Africa.

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The 29-year-old qualified for Ireland through residency having played for Munster from 2016 and played for his adopted country five times. His last appearance was in the win over Samoa in a pool match at the 2019 World Cup.

KLEYN

World Rugby on Thursday cleared him for Springbok selection under new eligibility rules, declaring he fulfilled ‘birthright transfer’ requirements.

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The regulation –- which came into force at the start of 2022 -– allows  players to be selected for their country of birth (or of their parents’ or grandparents’ birth) once a period of at least 36 months has elapsed since their last selection for an adopted country.

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Kleyn has made more than 130 appearances for Munster and was a part of the side that beat the  Stormers in the United Rugby Championship final in Cape Town last month.

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He has been in a camp with the Springbok Rugby Championship training squad and is now eligible for selection as early as next month when the Springboks’ 2023 season kicks off against Australia at Loftus Versfeld.