New Zealand Rugby is facing a call for reconsideration of its policy on international players participating in club rugby abroad. All Blacks captain Sam Cane has advocated for a conversation on allowing players based overseas to be eligible for national selection. Cane expressed this viewpoint during a media appearance with the new Japan League One club Suntory Sungoliath, where he was joined by South Africa’s Cheslin Kolbe.
The proposal aligns with a trend in other rugby-playing nations, including South Africa, where allowing players based overseas to represent their national teams has been seen as successful. Former Springbok and rugby commentator Kevin Putt endorsed the idea, emphasizing the need to address New Zealand’s current ranking of seventh in the world in the under-20 category. Putt pointed out that countries like France and Ireland are ahead, indicating potential challenges for New Zealand rugby in the coming years.
The call for a reconsideration of eligibility criteria reflects ongoing discussions within the rugby community about adapting to the changing landscape of professional rugby, where players frequently ply their trade in various international leagues. The potential shift in policy could have broader implications for New Zealand Rugby and its talent pool, opening up opportunities for Kiwi players participating in overseas clubs to contribute to the national team.
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