Expect more player movement between unions

Rugby player transfers will become more common and happen more regularly through the year as reforms from the players' collective agreement come into effect.

It could also lead to the Air New Zealand Cup becoming a merry-go-round.

Transfer fees and restrictions on transfers have been abolished, freeing up the movement of players through the year.

The new transfer period now runs to the end of the Super 14, leaving players until then to decide which union they will play for in the Air New Zealand Cup.

NZRU deputy chief executive Steve Tew says it was part of the deal to give the players a bit more time and space to consider their futures and take the pressure off particular points of the competition. Tew confirms the new moves are also part of the salary cap agreement.

Harbour's Rua Tipoki has transferred to Canterbury to be available for the Crusaders but is hoping to be loaned back to North Harbour for the Air New Zealand Cup.

He cannot officially transfer back to Harbour in the same year as a player can only transfer once a year.

Tew says Tipoki will only be available for Harbour if the two unions agree on a loan.

- NEWSTALK ZB