The New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU) says it is getting tougher to hold off European raids on its All Blacks roster.
All Blacks prop Carl Hayman confirmed today that he will join England's Newcastle club, linking up with former All Black and Otago teammate Joe McDonnell, after this
year's World Cup.
Newcastle also has New Zealanders Loki Crichton, Mark Mayerhofler and Mark Sorenson on their books.
NZRU deputy chief executive Steve Tew said in a statement today it was very disappointing to lose Hayman.
"His services will be sorely missed.
"We put the very best possible offer in front of Carl and we are grateful that he gave it serious consideration. "In the end, he had to consider a number of factors in making his decision.
"The incredible amounts of money on offer in the UK and France are making it increasingly difficult for the NZRU to compete on straight dollar terms despite tremendous commercial support from our partners."
All Blacks coach Graham Henry, acknowledging Hayman, 27, as the best tighthead in the world and an outstanding team man said the player's decision was also influenced by longevity and lifestyle factors.
"I think Carl would like to get out of the international spotlight for a while and sees this move as the best way to extend his time in the game," Henry said.
Tew said the NZRU was using every mechanism available to retain leading players.
"The dollars available overseas are a significant challenge.
"Our response has been to create the world's best rugby environment in New Zealand.
"We have invested in world class academies and high performance programmes and we support that with the best coaches.
"Underpinning this is our philosophy that to wear the All Blacks jersey, you must play in the Air New Zealand Cup or the Rebel Sport Super 14."
Hayman joins fellow All Blacks Aaron Mauger and Byron Kelleher in confirming their move to Europe.
Chris Jack, Rico Gear, Anton Oliver and Luke McAlister also poised to move overseas after the World Cup.
- NZPA
