New Zealand query France plans to rest stars for tour

New Zealand have asked World Rugby to clarify France’s plans not to select some of their top stars for next summer’s three-Test tour against All Blacks.

The French rugby union announced on Monday that, as part of an agreement with the country’s clubs, it would not select players competing in the domestic Top 14 final for the national team’s summer fixtures.

World Rugby has a rule – regulation nine, external – that specifies players must be made available for international selection during designated periods in the calendar.

The global governing body says the spirit of the rule is “integral to… the best interests of the sport”.

“We are seeking further information and clarification from both World Rugby and the French union to better understand the situation,” New Zealand Rugby said.