Former All Black legend Jeff Wilson believes that the Chiefs will be hit harder by the loss of Aaron Cruden than the international side.
Cruden confirmed on social media on Wednesday morning (NZ time) that he’s leaving for French club Montpellier on a three-year deal, nine years since his provincial debut for Manawatu
And Wilson - who earned 60 caps for the All Blacks in between 1993 and 2002 - isn’t surprised at the news.
"It was always going to be difficult for New Zealand rugby to keep the services of players coming off contract and he’s probably had an offer that’s too good to refuse," Wilson said.
"If you look at what Aaron faces after this season, trying to fight his way back into the No 10 jersey, you can’t begrudge him this opportunity, because he’s been such a loyal supporter of the game in New Zealand."
Cruden joins the growing list of New Zealand-born players departing for greener and wealthier pastures in Europe and Wilson said he could understand the mechanics behind the decision.
"Right now Beauden Barrett is the incumbent and I can understand where this decision has come from.
"But there are a lot of things I will miss about Aaron Cruden. You can’t fault the way he played in the No 10 jersey for the All Blacks, he’s been outstanding. When we needed someone to step up, he was the guy to do it.
"However the Chiefs will really miss him over the next couple of years. It’s good news for Damien McKenzie, but he’s been a huge part of the success in recent seasons."
As the focus now turns on whether the likes of Israel Dagg and Ben Smith will stay in New Zeland, Wilson said it was imperative it was the latter the NZRU went hard after.
"He’s the premier fullback in the sport and New Zealand Rugby will be digging very deep into their pockets to keep him. At the end of the day it’s about what Ben sees as his priority and what’s important to him.
"They’re difficult decisions for players to make."
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