Policy.

Scott Robertson has urged New Zealand Rugby (NZR) to keep an open mind over the eligibility rules surrounding overseas-based players, playing for the All Blacks.

Several key All Blacks left New Zealand following the Rugby World Cup to pursue playing opportunities including World Player of the Year Ardie Savea, captain Sam Cane, Beauden Barrett, and Richie Mo’unga.

Cane has spoken out in the past to urge New Zealand Rugby to reconsider not picking overseas-based players for the All Blacks but was told they would not be changing their policy.

But Robertson, who has taken over as the new All Blacks coach, is still hopeful NZR will change their mind.

“I presented to the board, the CEOs of Super Rugby, the PUs (provincial unions).. I explained about keeping an open mind in that space, that’s what I’ve asked for.

“Keep an open mind where the game is at the moment, it’s moving quite quickly, as we know.

“There is a lot of on and off field, players and decisions and contracting, and I want to be a step ahead of that. Decipher that.”

The argument surrounding eligibility has been strong in recent months with the likes of England, Wales, and Ireland adopting similar policies, while South Africa have completely relaxed theirs under Rassie Erasmus, winning two Rugby World Cups as a result.

Do you think New Zealand and the other nations should look at adopting the South African approach as the game continues to grow across the world?