All Blacks legend Sir Michael Jones says rugby union is losing support, particularly among Pacific communities, as rugby league gains momentum through stronger fan engagement and flexible player pathways.
He pointed to the struggling Moana Pasifika, which faces collapse without new investment, compared with the growing popularity of the New Zealand Warriors, who continue to draw large crowds in Auckland and a sold out ANZAC day clash in Wellington.
Jones warned that union risks fading relevance if it fails to connect with Pacific fans and modernise outdated systems, including restrictive eligibility rules that limit player movement compared to rugby league.
