The money or the jersey

Departed All Black Lima Sopoaga has delivered a chilling warning to New Zealand Rugby, declaring that overseas money is starting to outweigh the famous black jersey.

The 26-year-old has started his English career with Wasps, having left New Zealand in his prime with just 16 test caps to his name.

While the game’s bosses in New Zealand continue to cling to the value of the All Blacks jersey, not picking players from overseas to wear it in a bid to retain talent at home, Sopoaga says that might not be enough in changing times.

‘‘Things are starting to change and players are starting to wise up a bit,’’ Sopoaga told The Guardian newspaper.

"They realise it’s a business these days. A lot of us are starting to talk to each other more and about how we can benefit from the game because it is a business and it can be pretty cut-throat at times.

‘‘For a lot of guys like myself, who come from big families, from low socio-

economic backgrounds the chance to change your family’s life is pretty overwhelming.

‘‘It’s not something you should take lightly and sometimes the jersey is not enough for a better life.

‘‘It is special, the experiences you have are pretty surreal, but down the track those things don’t pay for a roof over your head.’’

Sopoaga’s premature departure hardly came as a surprise. While All Blacks traditionally left for Europe and Japan for big payouts in the twilight of their careers, things have changed with young stars such as Charles Piutau, Malakai Fekitoa, Aaron Cruden and Julian Savea all heading overseas while in their 20s and with plenty to offer the New Zealand game.

Others such as Wellington and Hurricanes captain Brad Shields have given up on their All Blacks dream early and

Lima Sopoaga, who played 16 tests, says the All Blacks jersey is special but the game can be a cutthroat business.