NZ Rugby being 'precious' on tens: Deans

Feb 11, 2017 - 7:12 AM Former Wallabies coach Robbie Deans reckons New Zealand Rugby will relent next year and allow its "precious" All Blacks to play in the Brisbane Global Rugby Tens.

There is a shortage of top-line New Zealand Test players at the inaugural event because of a contractual clause, demanding a 12-week rest period for those who had gone on their European tour.

The hiccup seemed to catch out organisers Duco Events, which used Israel Dagg heavily in the marketing of the tournament, only to have him blocked from playing for the Crusaders.

Kiwi Deans is hopeful New Zealand Rugby will change its mind.

"I'm sure they will next year," Deans said after steering Japanese club Panasonic Wild Knights to wins on Saturday over the the NSW Waratahs and Melbourne Rebels.

"Obviously, they've got a (British and Irish) Lions series coming and they're probably feeling a little bit precious right now.

"But the tournament's been a success, regardless.

"Other players emerge and that's the nature of the game - one misses out, someone always fills that void.

"You're seeing some players emerge here and it's great."

There is only a handful of recent All Blacks in action at the tens, including Liam Messam (Chiefs), Nene Milner-Skudder (Hurricanes) and George Moala (Blues).

Source: AAP