Rhys McClenaghan speaks out over Commonwealth Games ban

Defending pommel horse champion Rhys McClenaghan has spoken out for the first time after he was banned from competing at this summer's Commonwealth Games.

Commonwealth Games NI were notified on Thursday that three gymnasts including McClenaghan would not be allowed to feature in Birmingham.

McClenaghan, Eamon Montgomery and Ewan McAteer have been told they cannot compete for Northern Ireland because they represent Ireland in FIG events.

Northern Ireland gymnasts banned from competing at Commonwealth Games

The ruling was made by the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) during a recent meeting in Dubrovnik.

Commonwealth Games NI have labelled the ruling as "incomprehensible" and vowed to appeal the decision.

McClenaghan - who was Northern Ireland's only gold medallist at the Gold Coast Games four years ago - voiced his disappointment on social media.

He tweeted: "Earlier today I was informed that the International Gymnastics Federation (FIG) will not be allowing myself and my team mates to compete at the Commonwealth Games for Northern Ireland.

"I was born in Northern Ireland, my residence is in Northern Ireland and I represented and won Gold for Northern Ireland in the last Commonwealth Games.

"I feel that FIG do not understand the gravity of the Belfast Agreement and the unique situation pertaining to Northern Ireland.

"Every other sport understand the eligibility of Northern Irish athletes in accordance with Commonwealth Games. I would like to ask the FIG to reconsider their decision and allow us to compete at the Commonwealth Games."