The 'Grannygate' scandal that engulfed the game in Wales during the late 1990s has been cited in Spain's last ditch bid to be reinstated in next year's Rugby World Cup, it has emerged.
A verdict is expected today after Spain appealed against the deduction of 10 points from their two victories over the Netherlands in qualifying that saw them lose their place at the global tournament to Romania.
The punishment came after the Spanish fielded an ineligible player, Gavin van den Berg, in both matches amid suggestions his passport was tampered with. Spain claim this was done without their knowledge and believe the scandal of the past involving two of the game's major nations sets a precedent in terms of punishment, according to The Times.
