All Blacks Captain Suggests Review of NZ Rugby's Overseas Eligibility Rules
Sam Cane's comments come as he and other top rugby players are drawn to Japan's League One by high salaries and a compact calendar, sparking a debate on New Zealand's selection rules.
- All Blacks captain Sam Cane suggests New Zealand Rugby should review its rules that prohibit the selection of nationals playing overseas.
- Cane, along with other rugby stars, will play in Japan's League One this year, attracted by high salaries and a compact rugby calendar.
- Outgoing All Blacks coach Ian Foster has previously said changing the rules would be a 'disaster' for rugby in New Zealand, drawing talent away from its Super Rugby competition and stifling domestic player development.
- New All Blacks coach Scott Robertson has indicated that the time might be coming when NZR would have to consider its eligibility rules, or risk getting left behind.
- Japan's rugby league is growing in competitiveness, attracting top talent in their prime, and is no longer seen as a destination for players in the twilight of their careers.