All Blacks coach Robertson at peace with strict eligibility rule

All Blacks coach Scott Robertson has given up on his push to select overseas-based players, saying New Zealand Rugby's (NZR) strict eligibility policy is flexible enough to give him a strong squad.

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NZR limits selection to home-based players to bolster domestic competition but has allowed some long-serving All Blacks to take short-term contracts overseas while on sabbaticals.

Robertson previously called for more flex-ibility to pick offshore players but said he had reconsidered his stance.

“I had a year to look at it and where we stand,” he told the Rugby Direct podcast.

“One of my jobs is to make sure our pathways are strong so we can continue the flow of quality professional rugby players.