Former All Blacks captain Kieran Read is in disagreement with the current captain, Sam Cane, regarding a potential alteration to New Zealand Rugby’s overseas policy. Currently, players based abroad are ineligible for selection to Scott Robertson’s team.
Cane, having signed a short-term deal with Tokyo Sungoliath for the 2023/24 Japan Rugby League One season, is one such player affected by this policy. Although he will return in time for the 2024 international campaign, he expressed a desire for the eligibility policy to be reviewed.
However, Read holds a different perspective, cautioning New Zealand Rugby about the potential consequences of such a change. The 38-year-old emphasizes the importance of having players compete in New Zealand, contributing to a strong domestic competition that engages fans. He argues that the All Blacks and New Zealand Rugby cannot thrive if players are dispersed globally.
Cane, sitting alongside two-time Rugby World Cup winner Cheslin Kolbe during his unveiling at Tokyo Sungoliath, pointed to South Africa as an example. South Africa selects players from around the world, including those playing in Japan, but Read highlights potential challenges such as the lack of a break between the international and club seasons, resulting in players essentially playing year-round.
Read does not see a shift in policy happening immediately, expressing optimism that opportunities for sabbaticals will encourage players to stay in New Zealand for a longer duration.
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