Those opposed to the deal are not acting as guardians of the future of rugby in New Zealand, Mains said. "It's a test for New Zealand Rugby and it's a test for the Players Association board. He wanted the professional players opposing the deal to ask themselves where they came from in New Zealand rugby. "Do we want to do any damage to the grass roots of New Zealand rugby? Without the Silver Lake deal, rugby in New Zealand would continue to decline, Mains said.

Source: Otago Daily Times April 29, 2021 21:45 UTC