All Blacks star Julian Savea refuses to rule out shock switch to rugby league

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This was published 6 years ago

All Blacks star Julian Savea refuses to rule out shock switch to rugby league

Updated

Julian Savea hasn't ruled out a shock switch to rugby league.

The blockbusting wing is contracted to New Zealand Rugby (NZR) until the end of 2019, but has been unable crack the All Blacks side in recent times. At 27, time isn't necessarily on Savea's side but a record of 46 tries in 54 test appearances means he's bound to attract interest across the rugby codes when his contract comes up.

Strength and verve: Julian Savea celebrates scoring a try against France during the 2015 World Cup.

Strength and verve: Julian Savea celebrates scoring a try against France during the 2015 World Cup.Credit: AP

"It's always been in the back of my mind," Savea said of a shift to rugby league.

"I haven't had any reason to leave rugby, [but] I'd definitely think about it. You can't not think about it and not say no straight away, weigh up the pros and cons and what's best for my family."

Savea was in and out of the Hurricanes and All Blacks' starting sides in 2016, amid concerns over his fitness and form. The Hurricanes again sat him out during the business end of this year's Super Rugby season, with the national team eventually following suit.

He appeared in just two of the All Blacks' 14 Tests this year, scoring a try in the 78-0 rout of Samoa and then having a mixed time in the 15-15 draw with the British and Irish Lions. He wasn't required for the Rugby Championship or end-of-year tour, as Rieko Ioane established himself as New Zealand's premier left wing.

Savea was left to play provincial rugby for Wellington, who he helped win promotion to the national premiership for 2018.

"I guess [being dropped] can play a lot on your mind," Savea said.

"Especially with the confidence - do you start believing you're not good enough or say stuff it and work harder and work your butt off?

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"For me, I like the challenges. I've had adversity before, I just can't wait to get the season started."

Savea faces competition from players such as Wellington teammate Wes Goosen for a starting spot with the Hurricanes next year. But he says he's in a great frame of mind, after wife Fatima gave birth to their first child earlier this month.

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"Nothing can express how happy I am. I'm enjoying life, just trying to focus on the next step. The All Blacks is the end goal but not a real focus at the moment."

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