Why All Blacks Firmly Decline to Embrace Springboks’ Selection Policy and Stands Ground on Eligibility Criteria

Why All Blacks Firmly Decline to Embrace Springboks’ Selection Policy and Stands Ground on Eligibility Criteria.

The All Blacks have firmly rejected the suggestion put forth by Sam Cane to adopt the Springboks’ selection policy, leading to a heated debate and an official statement from New Zealand Rugby.

Sam Cane proposed that the All Blacks should consider implementing the Springboks’ approach of selecting players based overseas for Test rugby. Currently, New Zealand Rugby rules limit All Blacks selection to players based in New Zealand and playing for their Super Rugby franchises, despite eligibility.

In contrast, SA Rugby allows any eligible player to be considered for Springbok selection, regardless of their location globally. Cane believes there are valuable lessons to be learned from the Springboks, citing their ability to transition from playing in lower leagues to international rugby seamlessly.

Even though the newly appointed All Blacks coach, Scott Robertson, has expressed openness to revisiting eligibility rules, New Zealand Rugby seems resolute in maintaining the existing criteria. They are concerned that any change could lead to a dilution of Super Rugby, a view contrary to Cane’s suggestion.

In response to the ongoing discussion, New Zealand Rugby released an official statement reaffirming their commitment to the current criteria. They emphasized that the existing rules allow experienced players to explore overseas opportunities and then return to contribute to New Zealand rugby in the long term. While they acknowledge ongoing efforts to enhance global competitiveness, they stressed that any significant changes to the criteria would not be imminent and would require extensive consultation with stakeholders.