World Rugby's decision to ban players from writing messages on their wrists has been slammed by New Zealand Rugby Players Association boss Rob Nichol.
He told Stuff.co the ban, introduced by World Rugby to align with the Olympics, was "completely inappropriate" and he was already working on getting it reversed.
Nichol, who said the directive was buried in a participation agreement, is fuming over the lack of consultation, despite World Rugby stating their rugby committee approved the ban after consultation last month.
Under the International Olympic Committee terms of participation, no slogans, symbols or messages are permitted.
Word of the policy emerged via social media yesterday after Black Ferns player Niall Williams, All Blacks midfielder Sonny Bill Williams' sister, reported players could be fined $1000 if they continued with the practice.
A potential World Rugby directive could result in players being fined $1000 for writing messages on their wrists.
Many All Blacks, Fiji Airways Men’s 7s players and other players write personal messages on their wrist strapping.
Williams writes on her Twitter account “ It's sad that in today's world we can't even write a personal message on our OWN WRISTS when we play. My daughter's initials on my wrists means so much to me AND my daughters! I would like to know what msgs @WorldRugby saw on wrists that made them come to this decision?
Aaron Cruden used to highlight his battle with testicular cancer, while Jerome Kaino usually scribbles a few things on his, including "Mum" and '"Dad".
Canadian sevens player Jen Kish also wrote on his Twitter account “ Dear WorldRugby, My freedom to express myself on the pitch is worth more than a $1,000 fine but the last thing I want is to fund you! #YouWin.
All Blacks prop Kane Hames was given a warning by New Zealand Rugby last year, after writing a message of support for native Americans while he was playing for the New Zealand Maori.
World Rugby had a manager's meeting yesterday. In the meeting, they were told about this new policy where every athlete will be forced to sign this agreement.
Various media outlets around the world including Legend FM News has contacted World Rugby for comment.
FRU CEO John O’Connor has also been contacted on this issue.
Fiji will take on Russia at 7.06pm this Friday in their first game of the Dubai 7s, they will then face Wales at 10.06pm Friday before facing Australia at 4.06am Saturday in their last pool match.
The Medal quarterfinals will start at 6.30pm Saturday, the semifinals will be held at 1.19am Sunday while the final will kick off at 4.33am Sunday.
South Africa are the defending champions. Fiji has only won the Dubai 7s title twice which was in 2013 and 2015. We have lost out in the final seven times.
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