England clear Shields for June tests

According to a report by The Telegraph Brad Shields could play for England against the Springboks in June while still being on the Hurricanes' books. 

The report states that Eddie Jones has been given the green light to select Shields in his touring squad. It goes on to state that the RFU's agreement with Premiership Rugby precludes the selection of overseas-based players. However, as Shields is joining Wasps next season, England coach Eddie Jones will be permitted to pick the 27-year-old flanker. 

There has already been a precedent set with Northampton centre Piers Francis, then playing for the Blues in Super Rugby, was selected for England's tour of Argentina in June last year when Jones had so many players unavailable because of the Lions tour of New Zealand.

Shields qualifies for England through his parents and there seems to be an urgency to fast-track him into their system with next year's Rugby World Cup in Japan beckoning.

The Telegraph reports Jones has hinted he may rest some players who were involved in last year's Lions tour and with the likes of Courtney Lawes and Nathan Hughes on a lengthening injury list, Shields would bolster England's back-row options with his ability to comfortably play at no.8 & blindside.