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- All Blacks loose forward wants New Zealand Rugby to reconsider its policy on selecting overseas-based players.
- Savea is unavailable for selection by new All Blacks coach Scott Robertson after leaving New Zealand in December to take up a lucrative contract with the Kobe Steelers in Japan.
- Savea used the Springboks as an example of a team that thrives in selecting overseas players.
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All Blacks star Ardie Savea has urged New Zealand Rugby's top brass to reconsider its player eligibility rules.
Savea, who won the 2023 World Rugby Player of the Year accolade, is currently unavailable for the All Blacks after joining Japanese League One club Kobe Steelers.
According to New Zealand rugby regulations, players based outside of the country cannot be picked for the All Blacks.
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However, speaking to the New Zealand media from his base in Japan, Savea said the All Blacks should follow the Springboks' example when it comes to selecting overseas-based players.
The Springboks, who beat the All Blacks 12-11 in the 2023 World Cup final in Paris, have no limits on the number of overseas-based they can call up. Around half of the Bok squad from last year's World Cup plied their trade at overseas clubs.
"Times are changing," Savea said. "Things are moving fast. What worked five, 10, 15 years ago maybe can't work now. We've just got to be innovative and smart around what we're doing.
"The country that's proven that it works, that it helps, is South Africa. The majority of their team's playing [offshore] and they come together and win the World Cup.
"I don't think it's going to change drastically, but I just think that something needs to evolve and grow."
Savea is one of several All Blacks currently plying their trade in Japan. Lock duo Brodie Retallick and Sam Whitelock, captain Sam Cane and halfbacks Aaron Smith and Richie Mo'unga all left New Zealand after last year's showpiece in France.
"I think that's the best thing about being out of New Zealand - I'm playing against guys from South Africa, Pacific Island boys that are from Tonga, Samoa - the Japanese brothers, Aussie brothers," Savea added.
"I'm playing against a different variety of players, different styles, which has been refreshing and awesome. Where in New Zealand, you're just playing against the New Zealand teams and Aussie teams."
