Poms defend selection

Briefs

Rugby: Rugby Football Union chief executive Ian Ritchie has defended Eddie Jones’ decision to select New Zealand-born wing Denny Solomona despite the union lobbying to extend the residency rule to five years. Solomona is set to win his first rugby union cap after being included in a 31-man squad to embark on a two-test tour of Argentina in June. The Auckland-born 23-year-old switched codes in December by swapping Castleford for Sale. He recently completed the three-year residency period to make him eligible for England. The RFU, however, wants that rule extended to five years – a measure which will be voted on by the World Rugby council next month. ‘‘I don’t see it as hypocritical,’’ Ritchie said of Solomona’s recent selection. ‘‘The current rule is three years. We checked very carefully that Denny hits the current qualification. Why therefore would one not pick him?.’’ month in Minneapolis under a USA Boxing exemption, The Star Tribune reported. The organisation normally requires boxers to wear a sleeveless jersey and shorts. 65 at TPC San Antonio.