The All Black hooker Keven Mealamu says it would be devastating for the players if they didn't get to compete in the next World Cup.
NZRU chief executive Steve Tew says the participation of major playing countries in future world cups is under threat because competing in the event costs millions of dollars in lost revenue.
A major sticking point is around commercial rules which block unions from using their own team sponsors during a World Cup.
Tew says not sending the All Blacks to the Rugby World Cup would be a last resort.
