All Blacks great Michael Jones says rugby union losing 'hearts and minds' to rugby league in New Zealand

All Blacks great Michael Jones told AFP that rugby union in New Zealand is losing its appeal to rival code rugby league, especially among Pacific islanders. Jones's comments came as the Moana Pasifika Super Rugby team, which focuses on players of Samoan, Tongan, and Cook Islands descent, announced it would fold without new investors. This team has struggled to attract fans and talent since its 2022 debut. In contrast, the Auckland-based New Zealand Warriors National Rugby League side has consistently sold out its 25,000-seat Mt Smart Stadium. Jones, who played 55 Tests for the All Blacks and won the 1987 Rugby World Cup, attributes rugby league's success to its administrators' positivity, innovation, and creativity. He warned that rugby union risks being overtaken if it does not adapt. The All Blacks, traditionally a dominant force, have seen their aura fade, with spectator apathy growing, particularly among the 275,000 people of Pacific origin in Auckland. Jones emphasized that strong Pacific rugby is crucial for New Zealand rugby and criticized rugby union's "archaic" eligibility rules, which he believes hinder the game's promotion. Rugby league allows players to switch national allegiance more freely than rugby union. Ken Laban, a rugby league broadcaster, noted the different approaches to fan engagement, especially with Pacific communities, citing rugby league's willingness to prioritize Pacific nations in player selection. He also pointed to the shift in media coverage,