All Blacks urged to follow the Springboks example

Former All Blacks skipper Sam Cane believes that New Zealand Rugby should take a page out of the Springboks book.

Cane feels that New Zealand should loosen its eligibility rules to keep veteran players in the All Blacks pool.

ALSO READ: Jacques Nienaber starts new job in Ireland [PHOTOS]

COULD ALL BLACKS FOLLOW THE SPRINGBOKS?

While Cane’s short stint in Japan won’t make him ineligible for All Blacks selection, the likes of Richie Mo’unga and Aaron Smith are set to be lost to international duty.

ALSO READ: World Cup final TMO exposed to shocking abuse

“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.

He feels that NZR are creating a problem where there doesn’t need to be one.

ALSO READ: England star warned about mega-money moves abroad

“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,” Cane said.

“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.

ALSO READ: Antoine Dupont STILL hurt by ‘injustice’ of Rugby World Cup loss to Springboks

“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.

ALSO READ: What does a Springbok rugby player earn?

“Obviously a lot to consider and well above my pay grade.”

Cane admits the prospect of playing abroad is about more than just money as players get to mix it with a cosmopolitan group in leagues in Japan, France and elsewhere.

CANE AND KOLBE

He is looking forward to turning out in the same team as Rugby World Cup-winner Cheslin Kolbe.

“It will be awesome to play with Cheslin, it will be awesome to have him on my team instead of running around trying to catch him,” the All Blacks captain said.

“He’s someone I’ve admired as a rugby player for a long time, so it’s been awesome to get to know him and I’m excited to take to the field with him should we get the opportunity.

“I’m excited about playing. Hopefully Dane Coles is playing for Kubota (Spears) in round one so he can go up against us.”