Highlanders assistant coach Tony Brown expressed concerns over the policy last week, saying it has "cost a few players their All Black careers". And then their Super Rugby form actually cost them their All Blacks spot." Robinson, who took over from Steve Tew as NZ Rugby CEO, said he understood Brown's criticism but defended the All Blacks selectors. Robinson, a former All Black, said NZ Rugby has tried to find a "delicate balance" with the policy and that it was built with consultation from players. "Overall, we think it's been a very effective policy and a lot of work has gone into it.

Source: Otago Daily Times February 09, 2020 22:52 UTC