Scott Robertson backs NZ Rugby's home-based player selection policy

All Blacks coach Scott Robertson has publicly backed New Zealand Rugby’s (NZR) policy of selecting only home-based players for the national team, marking a change from his previous stance advocating for the inclusion of overseas-based talent.

His support highlights the importance of maintaining strong domestic rugby pathways and ensuring New Zealand’s rugby infrastructure remains competitive.

Initially, Robertson had pushed for greater flexibility in selection policies, pointing to the success of nations like South Africa, which allows the selection of overseas-based players.

However, after taking time to reflect and gaining a deeper understanding of the current system, he has now come to support NZR’s stance.

"I’ve had a year to reflect and understand it more, and I’m at peace with it," he said. He emphasized the need for a strong local system to continue producing world-class players, ensuring a steady pipeline of talent remains within New Zealand’s rugby structure.

Robertson noted that NZR already provides some flexibility within its policy, citing the ability for players to take short-term overseas stints while still remaining eligible for the All Blacks.

"There is flexibility in it. There are sabbaticals and short-term contracts," he explained.

One notable example is All Blacks midfielder Jordie Barrett, who was granted a six-month sabbatical to play for Leinster. Robertson believes such arrangements can benefit players without compromising the strength of New Zealand’s domestic competitions.

NZR’s policy aims to ensure that the country retains its top talent and continues to develop emerging players within its own rugby framework.

While South Africa removed its overseas selection ban in 2018 and has since won two consecutive World Cups, New Zealand has opted to prioritize homegrown talent. Robertson’s endorsement of the policy reinforces the strategic importance of nurturing players within the local system while allowing some degree of international exposure through controlled sabbaticals.