A former Bristol Rovers schoolboy caught up in an international tug of war? It is news that would lead many cursing their luck over a talented player the Gas may have let slip through their fingers.
Yet this is a tug of war with a difference.
James McCarthy was involved in the Gas' academy and gained a reputation as being a quick footballer - to such an extent that a teacher at his school in Carleon, South Wales, invited him to a rugby session at the age of 12.
In an interview with The42 McCarthy says he 'wasn't too bad' at football, but his eyes were opened to rugby in that training session.
He said: "Since that day my teacher stuck me on the wing, I’ve loved it."
It kick started an interest in the sport, and he was talented enough to play himself into Wales' youth set-up despite being a late starter at rugby.
Playing on the wing for Wales under-18s in 2017, he scored two tries against Ireland and impressed enough in the game for Munster to invite him into their academy.
McCarthy, who has an Irish-born father, accepted, and the move raised eyebrows from some who expected him to be Wales' next big thing.
He has since represented Ireland under-20s and trained with Munster's senior team, but, two years after the move, he has opted to return to Wales, reportedly being unable to settle in Limerick away from family and friends.
Despite this, he is still in contention to play for Ireland at the under-20 World Championship in Argentina - although he is still eligible to play for Wales.
His return to the country of his birth could well prompt speculation over his international future once more.
Wales Online report that former Wales prop Rhys Thomas, who coached him at Newport High School Old Boys, has predicted big things for his future.
He said: "James has the potential to become a senior international. He’s young, has very good feet and is extremely fast."
The future looks bright for McCarthy whichever path he chooses - and the Gas' connection to a potential international sports star is certainly an interesting one.
