Welsh and Scottish rugby officials will be questioned in Dublin today over charges that they fielded ineligible players at international level this year.

Wales stars Shane Howarth and Brett Sinkinson - both New-Zealand born - and Scotland prop David Hilton have been summoned to attend an International Rugby Board (IRB) disciplinary hearing today and tomorrow. The three-man panel, chaired by South African judge Jannie Lubbe, will deliver its verdict after hearing all the evidence, and, if necessary, dish out punishments.

It is the Welsh Rugby Union and Scottish Rugby Union who could be hit hardest, especially if the panel find them guilty of misconduct regarding the players' backgrounds.