Sticking points for Cummins
Chances are dwindling for the Western Force to secure winger Nick Cummins for the 2015 Super Rugby season.
Coca Cola Red Sparks have turned down an initial request from Cummins to be released to the Force next year, a move that would also make him eligible for the World Cup.
The Japanese Top League club has also rejected an offer by Cummins to sign for a third season if he could be loaned back to the WA club.
The Force said they would hold a Super Rugby spot open for the "Honey Badger" while they tried to secure a release.
But with the Japanese unlikely to reopen any formal talks until their season ends in February, the Force may have to reconsider.
They have until December 31 to announce their final list.
The only concession Red Sparks are prepared to give is to allow Cummins to play for the Wallabies, but Australian Rugby Union rules do not allow World Cup selection unless a player is contracted to an Australian Super Rugby club.
Cummins, who scored for the Barbarians in their 40-36 loss to Australia at Twickenham last Saturday, admitted a return to the Force was unlikely.
He was lost to Australian rugby after the ARU refused to top up his salary even though he was not on their highest salary scale.
Cummins was released from his contract on compassionate grounds to earn more money to help his family. Two siblings have cystic fibrosis and his father Mark, who has been involved in the contract talks, has been diagnosed with cancer.
Cummins needs to show some form with Red Sparks. He has had little game time. Under Japanese competition rules a club is allowed to have only two overseas players on the pitch at any time.
