A mediator has been called in to try and resolve a stand off between NZ Rugby (NZR) and the Players Association (NZRPA) over a proposed private equity deal worth $465 million.
The NZ Herald reported several of the country's leading rugby players are threatening to block New Zealand Rugby's deal with United States technology investment giant Silver Lake over concerns it could ruin the team's relationship with fans.
Photo: © Copyright Andrew Cornaga 2020 / www.photosport.nz / Photosport Ltd
The New Zealand Rugby Players Association wrote to New Zealand Rugby expressing concern over an offer to sell a 15 percent stake in the organisation's commercial rights and also warn New Zealand Rugby's Māori and Pasifika culture is "not for sale" reports the Herald.
The letter is reportedly signed by David Kirk, the 1987 All Blacks World Cup-winning captain and NZRPA chairman, and chief executive Rob Nichol on behalf of the players' board - including All Blacks captain Sam Cane along with Sam Whitelock, Aaron Smith, Dane Coles and Black Ferns Sarah Hirini and Selica Winiata.
When contacted by RNZ, Players Association boss Rob Nichol wouldn't discuss the letter which reportedly urges that alternative capital raising approaches, such as government or public bonds, be explored.
Rob Nichol of the NZ Rugby Players Association. Photo: Photosport
"We have concluded that we will not grant approval for the restructure and sale proposed by NZR and believe we should communicate that conclusion to you now," the letter states.
"The decision to not grant approval to the sale of a minority interest in New Zealand Rugby has been arrived at after careful consideration by the board of NZRPA."
The two parties are now in mediation, RNZ understands.
Next month the 26 provincial unions are set to vote on the deal with NZ Rugby needing a 50.01 percent vote in favour of the proposed deal although it also needs apparent approval from the NZRPA.
