More than 500 rugby players are to receive letters from the New Zealand Rugby Football Union asking them if they are available for next month's overseas tours.
Former All Black captain Justin Marshall has raised the issue of player safety in light of the September 11 terrorist attacks.
The union has confirmed the All Black tour of Britain and Argentina and the sevens team's tour of Dubai are still on, subject to developments in the strikes on Afghanistan.
A spokesman said letters had been sent to players from all 27 NPC teams asking them to confirm their availability. They have until Monday to respond.
"Some of the players may have objections to going ... We're asking them to declare their availability. If we don't hear otherwise we'll think they're available," the spokesman said.
The union has indicated that nothing will be held against players who choose not to tour.
The All Blacks are set to leave on November 7, three days after the scheduled departure of the sevens team for their tournament in Dubai.
Union chief executive David Rutherford said there was no rush to make a final decision on whether the tours would go ahead.
"We have all got concerns. We are monitoring it. But we all have obligations as sports people."
Senior All Blacks Marshall and Christian Cullen have raised concerns about touring during the current global unrest.
"It doesn't make you feel that comfortable heading to that part of the world," Marshall said.
"It may not be worth the risk - especially when you are aware that sporting teams are a pretty good target.
"What makes you apprehensive is that this is not a tour in general that New Zealanders are greatly excited about. Television is not so interested and the tour was basically put together for adidas."
Cullen said he would not object to the tour being cancelled.
"I'd rather be down here in New Zealand and be right away from it."
Rutherford said he was amazed Marshall could think the tour was an avenue to promote adidas sponsorship of the All Blacks.
"It was plainly wrong. I do not know where he got his information from. I could not believe such a senior player might think that."
Marshall would not be sanctioned for his inaccurate remarks and he had been given the correct information.
"Justin apologised and that is where we will leave it," said Rutherford.
Former All Black great Colin Meads said he was surprised the union had asked players' opinions on whether they wanted to tour.
"I think the Rugby Union's got to make the decision and that's it."
Former All Black Andy Haden agreed, saying the union should show some leadership and make a decision.
- NZPA, AGENCIES
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