Jackson and Olding could make Ireland returns

Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding could make international returns with Ireland despite having their central contracts cancelled in April.

Jackson and Olding were released from their deals with the national team and Ulster following a trial at Belfast Crown Court, at which both were acquitted of rape charges.

Both men have moved to France to restart their careers, Jackson signing for Perpignan, while Olding agreed a two-year deal with Brive.

And should they impress, Ireland’s performance director David Nucifora has not ruled out bringing them back into the international fold at some point in the future.

“I don’t think anything is ever forever. Who knows what could happen or what will happen,” Nucifora told reporters in Sydney.

“The players now have found new contracts so that is a positive for them personally, individually, and everyone just has to move on from that.

“For the immediate future, there’s no thought that they will be considered. They are playing overseas at the moment. If you are playing overseas, you are not considered.”

KEO.co.za News wire is powered by opta