When is a regulation not a regulation? When it involves European Rugby Cup Ltd. Leinster's hopes of a back-door route to the quarter-final of the European Cup are unlikely to be realised despite a gaffe by ERC, or more accurately a misunderstanding between the French rugby federation and ERC chairman, Frenchman Jean Pierre Lux.

Leinster's contention that Stade Francais played an illegal player - Manu Samoan winger Brian Lima - in the game at Donnybrook is not disputed. However, Stade had sought permission for his inclusion, granted by Lux who had consulted with the French rugby authorities and was assured that everything was in order regarding Lima's registration. It was only subsequently that it was discovered that the papers had not been received in time.

Agen fielded ineligible players in the Shield and were deducted four points: Leinster though won the match in question and while they can justifiably feel aggrieved are unlikely to receive satisfaction.