Can we discuss the "extra salary cap" coping mechanism?
Yes, Auckland were afforded extra salary cap room to make up for not being able to access exemptions for loyal and homegrown players. Importantly though, the number chosen was based on an average of what other clubs were spending. So the exemption was less than some other clubs are spending.
While it does afford a bit more freedom (Auckland can choose from a wider pool of players than those who'd be eligible for loyalty exemptions), there's still risk in every signing. The inverse is that with loyal player the clubs know exactly what they're getting.
Also, Auckland has included plenty of local players who were literally amateur 24 months ago.
So all things considered the league probably got it about right.
Yes, Auckland were afforded extra salary cap room to make up for not being able to access exemptions for loyal and homegrown players. Importantly though, the number chosen was based on an average of what other clubs were spending. So the exemption was less than some other clubs are spending.
While it does afford a bit more freedom (Auckland can choose from a wider pool of players than those who'd be eligible for loyalty exemptions), there's still risk in every signing. The inverse is that with loyal player the clubs know exactly what they're getting.
Also, Auckland has included plenty of local players who were literally amateur 24 months ago.
So all things considered the league probably got it about right.