"I don’t think anything is ever forever."
IRFU performance director David Nucifora has not ruled out the possibility of Paddy Jackson and Stuart Olding once again playing at international level.
Speaking in Sydney on Monday, as reported by
The Irish Times, Nucifora indicated that he was not shutting the door on the duo returning to Irish provincial rugby and being available to play for Ireland again.
"It’s not one for me to say but I don’t think we can make a comment on that," said Nucifora.
"But I don’t think anything is ever forever, who knows what could happen or what will happen?
"For the immediate future, there’s no thought that they will be considered. They are playing overseas so at the moment if you’re playing overseas, you’re not considered."
The pair had their contracts revoked by the IRFU and Ulster following a review in April in the wake of their acquittal on rape charges .
Jackson recently signed for recently promoted French Top 14 club Perpignan, while Olding joined Pro D2 club Brive for next season.
Nucifora went on to explain that the case highlighted the need for education in this area, something the IRFU are committed to doing.
