THE decision of the International Board to impose a 180 day residency rule for players moving from one union to another has caused enormous debate and controversy.

The decision may stand up in relation to players moving from unions between the hemispheres, but because of the recent ruling in the Bosman case it would appear that it is open to challenge in the courts by players who move within the EC.

The new board chairman, Vernon Pugh, said: "In the current state of the game the regulation is necessary. We took legal advice and are comfortable that it would be upheld if challenged, in the interests of the game. England have a seven day registration proposal but that may have to change.

"But there is the possibility of agreement between two unions. We believe that there is a need for this regulation as the game moves from amateur to professional." He did accept, however, that it may be challenged.

Philip Browne, the secretary of the IRFU, said the regulation may well conflict with the Bosman ruling. "I would like to see how that falls into place in relation to the Bosman ruling. It would seem to me to conflict with the right of freedom of movement of citizens of EC countries and their right to work in another EC country.

"If it stands up it would obviously have a considerable effect on Irish players moving to play in England. Obviously the IRFU will be looking closely at all aspects of the decision."

Tony Hallett, the secretary of the English Rugby Union, expressed even more strenuous doubts. "It seems a very restrictive move in a game that is about to go open. It appears to me to be a restraint of trade. I cannot see our first division clubs wearing it."

Fred McLeod, of Scotland, obviously conscious of the recent, significant movement of Scottish players to English clubs, said his union would have to examine it in minute detail, "But it could lead to some very tricky cases."

From an Irish perspective, it will also mean that Irish players who are currently considering offers from English clubs will have to make a quick decision if they want to play in England next season.

Two Irish players, Nick Popplewell and Eddie Halvey, have moved to English clubs. Popplewell moved from Wasps to Newcastle a few months ago and is currently fulfilling the 120 qualification period for a players moving from one club to another. But, in fact, Popplewell is still living in Dublin. Eddie Halvey has signed a three year contract with Saracens and is due in London this week.

Ireland internationals David Corkery and Anthony Foley signed registration forms for Harlequins before Christmas, but not contracts. They will have to make up their minds whether to exercise their options of going to the English club. In Corkery's case, I gather he may not move to Harlequins but is more likely to go to London Irish if he moves to London.

Two other internationals, Paul Wallace and Keith Wood, have also been approached. Wallace has been in discussion with Saracens, but decided not to make any immediate decision and would not move before the end of the season. He may have to bring that decision forward now. Wood has been approached by Newcastle.

Gabriel Fulcher is due to play with London Irish in the closing stages of this season's English League, but has not signed any contract that would embrace a permanent move to England.

In addition to those players, some other current internationals have been approached by English clubs. So decision time is nigh if the new law stands up and players want to move. It may not just be on the detail of their playing contracts that players will be seeking legal advice.