A warning for Wales's RWC squad

World Rugby has asked to receive clarification from Wales after a group of players not part of their official 31-man World Cup squad reportedly took part in training at their base in Surrey on Wednesday.

By letter of the law, back-up players who do not make a final 31-man World Cup squad are forbidden from participating in training sessions with the official group.

No formal investigation has been launched by World Rugby, but it is has been made aware of the reports and will speak with Wales.

However even if Wales were found to have breached any tournament rules during the training session, a possible points deduction is off the table with a fine or warning the most likely outcome.

There is, as of this moment, no suggestion that Wales deliberately intended to flout World Cup regulations.