New All Blacks head coach Scott Robertson says he wants an "open mind" to be kept regarding the selection of those who are playing overseas.
The current All Blacks policy prevents the head coach from selecting those - like Richie Mo'unga who signed a three-year deal with Japanese side Toshiba Brave Lupus - who are not playing their rugby in New Zealand.
"I’ve presented to the board, the CEOs of the Super Rugby (teams), the (provincial unions), Heartland (unions) about just keeping an open mind with where we are in that space," Robertson said during his first press conference as head coach.
"That’s what I’ve asked for. I've not asked for 'Can someone please come and play for us?' but keep an open mind about where the game is at the moment.
"It's moving quite quickly, as we know. There are a lot of on and off-field decisions to be a step ahead of."
Robertson concluded his answer by telling the assembled media to "Decipher that!"
14 October 2023; Richie Mo'unga of New Zealand breaks past Josh van der Flier of Ireland during the 2023 Rugby World Cup quarter-final match between Ireland and New Zealand at the Stade de France in Paris, France. Photo by Brendan Moran/Sportsfile
Asked if he'd like to see Mo'unga play for the All Blacks this year, Robertson replied, "I just want to keep an open mind so I can select the best players for the All Blacks."
Last month, former All Blacks captain Kieran Read said he was against a change to eligibility rules.
"From my point of view, I don’t think New Zealand Rugby, the All Blacks or anyone could survive if we end up going down that route, just yet," said Read.
"We need our guys playing in New Zealand. We need a strong competition that’s getting fans along to games, getting them engaged, keeping them engaged here in New Zealand."
13 November 2022; Barbarians joint head coaches Ronan O'Gara, left, and Scott Robertson with captain Luke Whitelock after the Killik Cup match between Barbarians and All Blacks XV at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London, England. Photo by Ramsey Cardy/Sportsfile
12 of the players who were part of the All Blacks squad which reached the Rugby World Cup final have chosen to move overseas this season. Some have moved on long-terms deals but others - like Beauden Barrett who has joined Japanese side Toyota Verblitz on a season-long contract - will be available for selection by the All Blacks later this year.
"We give them feedback," said Robertson when asked if he and his backroom team will be keeping an eye of the All Blacks playing in Japan.
"Scott Hansen has a good relationship with Beauden Barrett. They've kicked off into it and given feedback.
"All All Blacks, or any New Zealander player over there, we keep an eye on them, and will watch and give feedback about what habits of an All Blacks are required and how they can get the best out of themselves on and off the field."
Robertson added that he will be in attendance at Twickenham on March 9th when Ireland face England in the Six Nations.
