The gnarled, old Green Bay Packers coach from the NFL, Vince Lombardi, was famed for his much-quoted saying: "Winning isn't everything; it's the only thing." But he also said: "Winning isn't everything but the will to win is everything."
That is why New Zealand rugby may soon find themselves forced to consider overseas-based players when selecting the All Blacks. Make no mistake, New Zealand Rugby's central contracts system should be preserved for as long as possible. There is no doubt it helps the All Blacks win.
But, as we have seen with the defection of younger players to the big chequebooks of Europe, times are changing - fast. The Australians have reacted by decreeing only players with 60 tests or more can return to play for the Wallabies after an overseas stint. Though most attention has been paid to getting old soldiers like George Smith, Matt Giteau and others back into international rugby it's really about the drain of younger players; those on the cusp of international selection but who are not sure enough of it to pass up the chance of economic security and an adventure. The message is: stay, play 60 tests and then cash in.
Whether overseas player selection will work is moot. The biggest disadvantage is financial control shifts to wealthy European clubs. It requires little imagination to see 'injuries' occurring when international call-ups come, as with football and league.
The only way round that is cast-iron contracts shifting priority to test teams during international windows and such contracts to be enforced with vigour.