Moana Pasifika have been permitted to sign three current All Blacks effectively on secondment from New Zealand Rugby on top of former All Blacks or Wallabies returning from overseas.
Stuff.co.nz understands former Highlanders coach Aaron Mauger is a strong favourite to be unveiled as head coach, after putting significant work behind the scenes into how the new franchise would operate.
However, the news that current All Blacks, or potential All Blacks, can sign for Moana Pasifika without giving up the black jersey is also major development after much speculation about who would be eligible for the new side.
The flexibility will allow Moana Pasifika to significantly strengthen their squad in key positions as they prepare for Super Rugby Pacific.
New Zealand players association boss Rob Nichol says Josh Ioane, who has signed for the Chiefs would fit the profile for the sort of player that Moana Pasifika could sign under the ‘three player’ rule exemption.
[Source: Stuff.co.nz]
