International Rugby Board chief executive Mike Miller has claimed that New Zealand are "replaceable" should they carry out their threat to boycott the 2015 World Cup.
The All Blacks have threatened to pull out of the competition in England because of concerns over finances.
Despite conceding that New Zealand's participation would be preferable, Miller has said that the tournament would cope without them.
"Does the World Cup need the All Blacks? It would be good for the All Blacks to be there," stated Miller. "Everyone is replaceable."
The Kiwis are hosting the ongoing World Cup.
