Rugby-All Blacks coach Robertson at peace with strict eligibility rule

FILE PHOTO: Rugby Union - Japan v New Zealand - Yokohama International Stadium, Yokohama, Japan - October 26, 2024 New Zealand coach Scott Robertson before the match REUTERS/Kim Kyung-Hoon/File Photo

(Reuters) - All Blacks coach Scott Robertson has given up on his push to select overseas-based players, saying New Zealand Rugby's (NZR) strict eligibility policy is flexible enough to give him a strong squad.

NZR limits selection to home-based players to bolster domestic competition but has allowed some long-serving All Blacks to take short-term contracts overseas while on sabbaticals.