All Blacks and Blues midfielder Rieko Ioane has no qualms over the departure of test teammate Ngani Laumape, who's leaving New Zealand for French club Stade Francais.
Laumape, 28, will depart New Zealand after Super Rugby Trans-Tasman to join the Parisian side, leaving his international ambitions behind to play in the Top 14.
But while Laumape's exit is arguably a loss for NZ rugby, Ioane is one of few that stands to gain from the Hurricanes midfielder's lucrative French deal.
Ioane's chances of sealing a spot in the All Blacks backline have increased, now up against Anton Lienert-Brown and Jack Goodhue in the race to nail down the No.13 jersey.
All Blacks ambitions weren't on Ioane's mind when he was asked about Laumape's departure.
"I think it comes to a point - and I think everyone's different situations - where he feels the need to look after his family," Ioane tells Newshub.
"It's the right call. He's thinking long term and keeping family front of mind.
"I spoke with him this morning actually. He's in a good space and he's happy with the decision.
"I wish nothing but the best for him and I know he'll be killing it over there."
But while Ioane is losing one All Blacks teammate, another is staying, with TJ Perenara announcing he's spurned the Sydney Roosters’ advances to re-sign with NZ Rugby.
Like many New Zealand sports fans, the thought of Perenara in the 13-man code will remain a 'what if?' for Ioane.
"He's a huge part of New Zealand rugby, and the Hurricanes and All Blacks in particular. They'll be stoked to hear that announcement.
"I was looking forward to seeing him run a few short balls and hitting a few people in league, but that's just from my point of view.
"[It's] definitely awesome to see him sign back for his hometown and New Zealand."
Ioane's All Blacks ambitions were under the microscope, as the Blues prepared for the start of Super Rugby Trans-Tasman, with All Blacks coach Ian Foster paying a visit to their Auckland training ground.
"It's always good, training's a bit sharper when they're around and everyone's on edge," Ioane adds.
"It's always good to see Foz [Foster] and the coaches around. It shows that they're in touch with the clubs and I know they'll be making their way round the other franchises.”
Ioane and the Blues begin their Super Rugby Trans-Tasman campaign against the Rebels in Melbourne on Saturday.
And after two years of nothing but local derbies against fellow Kiwi sides, Ioane relishes the chance to face the Australians franchises again.
"Any competition is good. I'm sick of seeing Ngani, Anton and Jack, and the whole lot, week in, week out.
"It'll be good to see some fresh faces and that feel of the unknown, what other teams bring and the other dynamics that they play.
"It's going to be an exciting challenge, not only for myself, but our team."
Join Newshub for live updates of the Highlanders v Reds Super Rugby Trans-Tasman clash from 7pm Friday.
