Zinzan Brooke says rugby's ruling body is risking disaster if it cannot allow countries to pick their best players for the World Cup.
The former All Black No 8, writing for the BBC's website, said the problem facing Samoa in not having some top players available "is clearly a disgrace".
Brooke wrote:
"This is the World Cup and the best players should be playing in it.
"Something has to be decided - and decided now. The International Rugby Board [IRB] should be in a position to compensate the clubs."
Brooke said that losing countries such as Samoa, Fiji and Tonga would be a huge blow to the game.
"It is up to the larger countries to nurture those around them - perhaps through to the next World Cup.
"New Zealand should look after Samoa, the USA and perhaps someone like Papua New Guinea.
"We should be giving these countries the best opportunities that are available."
With the Tri-Nations and Super 12 contracts coming to an end, it was time for rugby union to develop another 10-year plan.
Brooke suggested reintroducing tours, which played a big part in rugby culture.
"The whole question of where the game is going needs to be re-addressed and the IRB must act now if disaster is to be averted."
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