The Ashton Gate quarter-final will be a massive challenge for dean Ryan’s men, but he now knows he can included Welsh internationals Nick Tompkins, Jonah Holmes and Jamie Roberts, along with the uncapped lock Joe Maksymiw after a ruling by tournament organisers EPCR.
“As a number of players have recently changed clubs, it has been decided on an exceptional basis to waive the rule which prohibits players from playing for different clubs in the same competition in the same season,” EPCR said in an official statement.
“In other words, a player who has already been selected in a match day squad during the pool stage of this season’s Heineken Champions Cup or Challenge Cup will be eligible to play for his new club in the same competition during the knockout stage provided his registration is approved by EPCR and the relevant union.
“In addition, and also on an exceptional basis, there will be no limit to the number of non-European players who can be selected in a match day squad of 23 during the knockout stages of both tournaments.”
The Bears will also benefit from the new ruling, which iwllcome into force for the game at Ashton Gate on 18 September. They will be able to include England and British & Irish Lions prop Kyle Sinckler, Fijian wing Semi Radradra and Saracens duo Ben Earl and Max Malins.
The Scarlets are also involved in the Challenge Cup quarter-finals. They face a trip to RC Toulon, where Welsh internationals Liam Williams and Tyler Morgan will be available.
