Graham Henry has warned New Zealand fans to expect more of the same as a swathe of All Blacks prepare to leave after the World Cup.
Henry told the Herald on Sunday the huge mental and physical demands of being an All Black will push players offshore earlierthan they used to.
The All Black coach has been a champion of player welfare since taking the post in 2004 and believes the bulging test calendar and relentless public expectation put intolerable pressure on players.
Inevitably, says Henry players such as Carl Hayman have opted to leave in the hope it preserves their careers and allows them to resurrect them down the track.
"I think 'Joe Bloggs' doesn't understand the pressure the players are under," said Henry.
"There are huge expectations on these guys. They play 12 or 13 tests a season and they play big Super 14 games - it is big games all the time.
"Not so long ago a guy might have taken six or seven years to win 35 caps, now he can do that in three or four years. These guys are totally committed to the All Black jersey but, for some, they take the view that they need to get out from under the microscope. It's nobody's fault, it is just the nature of the beast."
Aaron Mauger, Chris Jack, Hayman, Byron Kelleher, Sam Tuitupou and Anton Oliver have all confirmed they will be leaving after the World Cup.
Rico Gear admits it is probable he will be off too, while Sitiveni Sivivatu and Luke McAlister may also have deals to consider.
The NZRU is hopeful captain Richie McCaw will extend his contract.
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