Yeah, could be Kaptin, but suspect they are in the drivers seat regarding the dispute with the flight crew. 'Course, if the large shareholders lose confidence in the management, then all bets are off. Somehow, can't see this happening.
Most likely end up the way Comair did, the pilots accepting what they are offered, and not having anything to crow about.
As for recruitment, well KUL was tried, don't know the outcome. As long as the Captains they have now are top-notch, CX could very well get by with more "junior" First Officers. Other airlines have been doing this for years.