Debate.

All Blacks legend Dan Carter has weighed in on the eligibility debate in New Zealand Rugby following comments made by new head coach Scott Roberston.

As it stands, the All Blacks will not select players who ply their trade outside of New Zealand Rugby, a similar policy to Ireland and some other nations.

Robertson has spoken to the union and wants them to keep an open mind in terms of selection, potentially opening the door for the likes of Richie Mo’unga to continue playing for the All Blacks despite his move to Japan.

Carter, however, believes the laws need to be protected for now as changing them may open the door for more players to leave if they can still be selected for the All Blacks while playing abroad.

“I don’t think it’s just something you change immediately when, when you feel like there’s a player that you’d love to have,” Carter told Newshub.

“My opinion, [Mo’unga] is probably the best No. 10 in the world. As sad as it was to see him leave, he left for his reasons and to spend more time with his family.

“I’m sure he’s enjoying his time in Japan and I’m sure here’s a part of Razor that wouldn’t mind having him back as well.”

“The priority is making sure that New Zealand rugby is as strong as it possibly can be and if those eligibility rules change then who knows, we might see more players departing.”