All Blacks captain Sam Cane, currently playing for Tokyo Sungoliath in Japan, is advocating for New Zealand Rugby to adopt the Springboks’ policy of selecting overseas-based players for Test rugby.
Cane, who recently participated in the Rugby World Cup final against the Springboks and received a red card during the match, expressed his views during his unveiling in Japan.
Despite deciding not to return to Super Rugby Pacific next year, Cane has made himself available for All Blacks selection under new head coach Scott Robertson for the July Tests against England and Fiji.
Due to Cane’s overseas “sabbatical” and the coaching change, it is speculated that he may lose the All Blacks captaincy.
Several All Blacks players, including Richie Mo’unga, Shannon Frizell, Ardie Savea, Aaron Smith, Dane Coles, and Beauden Barrett, have transitioned to the Japanese Top League.
Cane believes that New Zealand Rugby can benefit from the Springboks’ approach, citing the 17 overseas-based players in the Springboks’ original 33-player World Cup squad.
He emphasized the ability of Springbok players to transition from League One to international rugby seamlessly and urged All Blacks players on shorter-term deals to perform well overseas.
Cane stated that demonstrating improvement in their games while playing abroad is crucial for those hoping to represent the All Blacks again.
He acknowledged the need for a thorough consideration of the situation, recognizing the importance of experienced players in mentoring young talent within New Zealand rugby.
Despite the complexity of the matter, Cane believes it’s a conversation worth having with New Zealand Rugby, although he acknowledges that such decisions are beyond his scope of influence.
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