IRL to approve major eligibility change in boost for smaller nations

The change will come into effect in time for next years international fixtures.

By Magdalena Murdoch · Zero Tackle

Published: Sunday, 8 November 2026 at 9:23 PM

Key Things to Know

The International Rugby League will allow players to qualify for nations via their great-grandparents.
The eligibility rule change was unanimously approved by the IRL Board and takes effect next year.
IRL chairman Troy Grant said the move respects cultural heritage and expands player pools for developing nations.

The Story in 60 Seconds

The International Rugby League Board has unanimously voted to expand international eligibility criteria, allowing players to represent nations through their great-grandparents. The new regulations, reported by The Daily Telegraph, build upon existing rules regarding parents and grandparents and are expected to take effect for international fixtures next year.

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IRL to approve major eligibility change in boost for smaller nations

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