The Johannesburg-born Munster lock qualified for Ireland on residency and made five appearances in 2019, including two at the Japan-hosted Rugby World Cup. He has not been selected since then, though, and therefore qualifies for South Africa under a new regulation. SA Rugby said World Rugby confirmed to them on Thursday that Kleyn fulfilled the necessary “birthright transfer” requirements. Kleyn has made more than 130 Munster appearances and helped them win the United Rugby Championship title last season. He is currently part of South Africa’s Rugby Championship training squad, with the Springboks kicking off that campaign against Australia in Pretoria on July 8.

Source: The Herald June 23, 2023 15:43 UTC