Kleyn clear to don green and gold

JOHANNESBURG - Jean Kleyn could soon be singing the national anthem of his native South Africa wearing the colours of the Springboks.

The former Ireland lock has been cleared for selection by World Rugby.

It's been confirmed by rugby bosses that the 29-year-old has met the necessary ‘birthright transfer’ criteria.

This regulation was effective from the beginning of 2022 and allows players to be selected for their, their parents’ or grandparents’ country of birth once a period of at least 36 months has elapsed since the last selection for an adopted country.

Kleyn moved to Ireland in 2016 and qualified for selection by residency in 2019.

The former Stormers lock was selected in Ireland's World Cup squad, playing games in the tournament hosted by Japan, but has not donned an Irish jumper since.

The Joburg-born giant was part of Munster's team that beat the Stormers to win the 2022/23 United Rugby Championship last month.