All Blacks captain Sam Cane wants New Zealand Rugby to review their eligibility rules amid the affect of overseas contracts next year. Cane and Ardie Savea will remain eligible for the national team despite their sabbaticals in Japan, but others like Richie Mounga, Aaron Smith, Brodie Retallick, and Leicester Fainga’anuku will likely miss out. Cane is concerned that South Africa allows players to represent the Springboks and play in Japan while New Zealand does not. The rise of player strength playing in Japan has been an issue for many international teams, and England, Australia, and Rugby Australia have all been grappling with similar situations.
In another news, World Cup TMO referee Tom Foley and Springbok halfback Cobus Reinach have been the recipients of death threats from fans. They both expressed their concerns about the prevalence of online harassment in the sport. Finally, Rugby Australia CEO Phil Waugh confirmed the organization’s commitment to signing Joseph Suaalii from rugby league, adding that they are considering including him in the Wallabies set up for the Spring Tour next year.