All Blacks Savea not ruling out potential code hop

NEW ZEALAND flyer Julian Savea has not ruled out a shock switch to Rugby League.

The blockbusting wing, 27, is contracted to New Zealand Rugby (NZR) until the end of 2019, but has been dropped by head coach Steve Hansen in recent times.

With a record of 46 tries in 54 Test appearances he is attracting interest across the rugby codes.

“It’s always been in the back of my mind,” Savea said of a shift to 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 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 left him out during the business end of this year’s Super Rugby season.

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 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 your butt off ?

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

Savea says he’s in a great frame of mind after wife Fatima gave birth to their first child earlier this month.

“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.”