Are we really still trying to take the moral high ground here, given what's happening with the SA game now? Give the guy a break I reckon.
Agreed. Get over yourselves people. 22 year old has opportunity to have a couple of weeks holiday with mates or fly to the other side of the world to play pointless game. What would you choose? Our qualification for Russia 2018 does not rest on what happens at Mt Smart in 1 week
Not that pointless. How many games this year will the All Whites play in NZ? Does it come down to: how important are the All Whites (in a wider sporting landscape, to football people and NZF's goals for the sport)? Do we really care about them other than in WC mode?
That's one thing I do like about rugby, no such things as friendlies. Terrible term, 'friendlies'.