Flanker snubs All Blacks for England opportunity - report

Hurricanes and Wellington loose forward Brad Shields has apparently spurned the chance for an All Black call up, according to The Telegraph.

It’s understood that All Black coach Steve Hansen wanted him in his squad to play France last weekend, given that Shields was in the UK having just finished his duties with the Barbarians. He would’ve provided cover for the injured Jerome Kaino, who was replaced in the starting XV by Vaea Fifita.

However, Shields was said to have rejected the offer – due possibly to his intention to sign with Wasps next season and potential eligibility for England. Shields automatically qualifies through his parents’ heritage and has been on the English radar for many years now.

It’s reported that Shields has had no guarantees from Eddie Jones about a place in England’s future plans, however conventional thinking would see him being groomed to take over Chris Robshaw’s number 6 jersey.

The 6’4″, 26-year-old Shields has long been considered unlucky not to make the All Blacks, however he’s had to contend with a very congested loose forward scene in New Zealand. As well as Kaino, he’s had to sit behind the rise of first Steven Luatua, then Elliott Dixon, Liam Squire and Fifita to the black jersey.

Shields was part of the 2011 NZ under-20’s team, alongside the likes of Beauden Barrett, Charles Pilatau, Sam Kane, Brodie Retallick and Codie Taylor. He has played 69 times for the Hurricanes and was a major factor in their maiden Super Rugby title last year.