We have spent time in France over the last year, with Top 14 coach Bernard Jackman and players of Richard Hill's Stade Rouennais; what strikes you is the passion of the home fans and the players love for the game.
Perhaps it is no surprise that players from all parts of the globe are interested in having the experience of French Rugby. Those Kiwis in their late 20's and early 30's are heading to France. Some says its lifestyle, some say it's money; whatever it is, it will change the face of rugby.
This week, Scott Donaldson hypothesises on a game between All Blacks based in NZ and their compatriots around the rugby world.
The recent spate of announcements of All Blacks going overseas in 2016, now means that there will be an entire team of overseas based All Blacks who could beat most international teams.
Imagine if the New Zealand based All Blacks play against the overseas based All Blacks in a match. The overseas based All Blacks have the experience, but could lack the young dynamic players.
There are also some players who have been overseas for years that we have forgotten about, while we also haven't included players likely to retire before 2016 like Richie McCaw, Tony Woodcock and Keven Mealamu.
The All Blacks will probably gel better and despite not being as experienced, they should have more X Factor and speed around the paddock to win.
Which team would win, Overseas based All Blacks or New Zealand based All Blacks? Who would you pick for each team?
Overseas-based All Blacks 2016 |
NZ-based All Blacks 2016 |
|
Colin Slade | 15 | Israel Dagg |
Charles Piatau | 14 | Ben Smith |
Conrad Smith | 13 | Malaki Fekitoa |
Ma'a Nonu | 12 | Sonny Bill Williams |
Joe Rokocoko | 11 | Julian Savea |
Dan Carter | 10 | Aaron Cruden |
Piri Weepu | 9 | Aaron Smith |
Jerry Collins | 8 | Kieran Read |
Chris Masoe | 7 | Sam Cane |
Jason Eaton | 6 | Jerome Kaino |
Brad Thorn | 5 | Sam Whitelock |
Jeremy Thrush | 4 | Brodie Retallick |
Carl Hayman | 3 | Owen Franks |
Aled de Malmanche | 2 | Dane Coles |
Ben Franks | 1 | Wyatt Crockett |