IRB rules Hilton out but there is still hope
Dublin
March 27, 2000

The International Rugby Board (IRB)ruled on Monday that prop David Hilton is not eligible to represent Scotland against England in their Six Nations match on Sunday.

The Board took the action after the Scottish Rugby Union (SRU) informed the IRB that Hilton's grandfather, whom the player believed originated from Edinburgh, was actually born in Bristol.

Hilton has won 41 caps for Scotland but Monday's decision does not necessarily mark the end of his international career.

The Board decided that Hilton would be able to resume his international career once he has completed the three-year residency period.

"The International Rugby Board today notified the Scottish Rugby Union that prop David Hilton is not eligible to represent Scotland this weekend," said IRB chief executive Stephen Baines.

"It will still be possible for Hilton, whose grandfather was found to have been born in Bristol rather than Edinburgh, to qualify by living in Scotland for three years.

"The question of possible sanctions against Scotland for selecting Hilton when he was ineligible will be considered by an IRB judicial committee on a date to be confirmed."

With the Scotland party due to assemble at Murrayfield on Tuesday as they attempt to prevent England landing the first Six Nations Grand Slam, coach Ian McGeechan is expected to name a replacement prop in his 22-man party this evening.

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