All Blacks coach Scott Robertson said this Sunday he was ready to ask the leaders of the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZR) to make players based abroad selectable in order to be able to compete with South Africa.
According to the former USAP player (2003-2006), the Springboks, two-time reigning world champions, have benefited from an open-door policy that allows players to accept lucrative contracts with foreign clubs while remaining eligible for selection. “We don’t want to be late by a cycle or a few years”Robertson told New Zealand media during a Zoom call. “Professional rugby is constantly evolving. Let’s keep an open mind and see what lies ahead. I will definitely be presenting.” in favor of a change in policy, he assured.
The NZR bans from selection any player who is not under contract in the country, a rule which aims to prevent the exodus of players and thus avoid weakening domestic competitions. Robertson, who ended his first year as All Blacks coach with a 29-11 victory over Italy on Saturday, plans to propose the change to the federation's board soon after returning home.
Pression
During this fall tour of Europe, the All Blacks bowed to the XV of France and recorded three unconvincing victories in Ireland and England and therefore against the Italians whom they had nevertheless pulverized (96-17) during the 2023 World Cup.
“If we take the example of South Africa, they have the opportunity to use a lot of experienced players who are looked after and managed until their thirties, which allows them to have a good balance”he noted. “Moreover, their squad is large, they can field two very high quality XV teams”.
Mindful of the need to maintain the competitiveness of Super Rugby and New Zealand's provincial competitions, Robertson said he would push for a targeted eligibility rule. In his mind, a player like star opener Richie Mo'unga who is currently playing in Japan could become selectable again, unlike players with little experience. Rugby Australia allows the selection of up to three overseas-based players, but only if they have played at least 30 tests with the Wallabies or commit to playing for an Australian-based franchise in the year following.
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