All Blacks must use Springboks’ overseas-player policy

Cane, who was sent off during last month’s Rugby World Cup final between the All Blacks and Springboks, made the comments during his unveiling as a Tokyo Sungoliath player in Japan.

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ALL BLACKS MAKE MOVE TO THE FAR EAST

Cane has opted against a return to Super Rugby Pacific next year, but did make himself available for All Blacks selection for the July Tests against England and Fiji under new head coach Scott Robertson.

Given Cane’s overseas “sabbatical” and the change of head coach, it is likely he will lose the All Blacks captaincy.

The 31-year-old is one of several All Blacks who’ve traded Super Rugby for the Japanese Top League, with the likes Richie Mo’unga, Shannon Frizell, Ardie Savea, Aaron Smith, Dane Coles and Beauden Barrett also making the move to Japan.

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BOKS’ POLICY IS THE WAY TO GO FOR NEW ZEALAND RUGBY

Cane believes that the All Blacks can learn lessons from the Springboks, who selected 17 overseas-based players in their original 33-player World Cup squad.

“A lot of the Springboks have shown the ability to play in League One and go back to international rugby fairly quickly and continue to play their best,” Cane told reporters.

“The challenge for us who are on the shorter-term deals in the hope of playing international rugby again is that we play really well here,” he added.

“Should we get the opportunity to represent the All Blacks again, we’ve got to show we’ve improved our games. If not, kick off where we left off.

“If we can do that, maybe that conversation can be had with New Zealand Rugby, but I can also see the other side.

“The fact of having experienced players to bring through young guys in the New Zealand game is equally important. Obviously a lot to consider and well above my pay grade.”

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