Source: PA Wire/PA Images

THANKFULLY, IRELAND AND Paul O’Connell managed to get this island’s big summer transfer story all signed and sealed off before the Rugby World Cup pre-season started.

In Wales, preparation for a tournament they have a role in hosting has been overshadowed by the impasse between Warren Gatland, the Newport-Gwent Dragons, Taulupe Faletau and Bath.

Source: Scott Heppell

The WRU’s Senior Players Selection Policy, popularly known as ‘Gatland’s Law’ states that only players who play in the Principality are eligible for international selection.

Obviously, that is not a workable situation with so many star names tempted to England and France. So, the rule exempts players (such as George North, Jonathan Davies and Leigh Halfpenny) who had an existing contract outside of Wales when the law came in to effect in March. Players who are released or not offered central WRU contracts also fall outside the net.

The Wales head coach currently has two wildcard selections available to get around ‘Gatland’s Law’.

As things stand, Harlequins’ Jamie Roberts and Bath’s Rhys Priestland are ear-marked for those places, but Taulupe Faletau is keen on a move across the Severn to Bath and the Dragons have agreed a transfer fee with the Premiership club.