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'It's a waste of a spot': Ex-All Blacks on the case against Fineanganofo
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Former All Blacks Stephen Donald, Jeff Wilson and Mils Muliaina unanimously agree that Hurricanes breakthrough winger Fehi Fineanganofo cannot be picked for the All Blacks.
The 23-year-old has just equalled all-time season record for tries in Super Rugby for the table-leading Hurricanes, leading to calls to have Fineanganofo retained.
The former All Blacks Sevens rep remains eligible for the All Blacks in 2026, theoretically he could play this year while still in New Zealand but once he begins his two-year deal at the Newcastle Red Bulls he is no longer eligible.
However, The Breakdown‘s panel of ex-All Blacks were unanimous in there decision that by missing the World Cup next year means he is un-selectable.
“The fact he’s not going to be around for World Cup, I think it’s a waste of spot,” Stephen Donald told The Breakdown panel.
“Unfortunately, you can’t pick him.”
Ex-All Black wing Jeff Wilson was equally firm on the position with Dave Rennie’s incoming coaching staff on a short runway to implement their new game plans.
The All Blacks will lose at least one of last year’s starting wings, Sevu Reece, to an overseas deal next year and need to find the best finishers as quickly as possible.
“I’m exactly the same,” Wilson said.
“We have limited number of opportunities to give players to prepare for a Rugby World Cup and Fehi’s had one heck of a season on the back of an outstanding Hurricanes team, but he’s made his decision to go and play overseas.
“He’s not going to be available for selection next year, and that’s pivotal for me. There isn’t time to waste.”
Mils Muliaina said on form Fineanganofo would’ve been an All Black, but also couldn’t see the point in handing him game time with the World Cup next year.
“I agree. I mean, man, he’s having a a season and a half, isn’t he? And he would have been [selected] had he not sort of gone,” he said.
“He [Rennie] can’t afford to give up a spot like that when they’re trying to sort of implement things, It’s going to be a big tour, three first games up front and then they’re going to South Africa.
“You’ve got to try and find your your best wingers and unfortunately you know, he just can’t give up that spot.”
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