Scott Robertson should have the freedom to select Sam Whitelock for the All Blacks squad, despite him currently playing in France, without interference from New Zealand Rugby. The new All Blacks coach is pushing for Whitelock to be involved in the 2024 Test season, citing the success of the Springboks in selecting overseas-based players. Whitelock's experience and expertise, especially in the lineout, would be invaluable for mentoring the next generation of locks in the squad. Robertson's request to consider overseas call-ups on a case-by-case basis, rather than a free-for-all, is a reasonable approach that NZ Rugby should make an exception for in Whitelock's case.