All Blacks coach Steve Hansen refuses to blame rich European clubs for an exodus of his star players in 2017, ahead of his side's Test match against France in Paris on Sunday.
The likes of Malakai Fekitoa, Charlie Faumuina, Steven Luatua and Tawera Kerr-Barlow have this season joined the list of players to trade the black jersey for financial security in Europe.
"I can't blame them (overseas clubs) for doing what they're doing," Hansen said.
"Their job is to make their clubs as strong as they can."
Hansen also spoke about he influx of foreign talent affecting the performance of a national side - in particular France - with younger players struggling to break into the first teams of their respective clubs.
"I do think it has a knock-on effect, in this case to French rugby."
"The more foreign players you have playing for your clubs, the less opportunities you have for young Frenchmen to grow and become better athletes."
"That's a French federation issue, it's not for me to say whether they should or shouldn't do that."
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