Former All Blacks star Julian Savea has admitted he has long considered the option of switching codes to play rugby league.
After 54 Tests for New Zealand, Savea hasn't pulled on the famous black jersey since this year's third Test against the British and Irish Lions. Rieko Ioane is now the favoured option on the left for the All Blacks and Savea has told Newshub his thoughts have drifted back towards a switch of codes.
"It's always been in the back of my mind," Savea said.
"I haven't had any reason to leave rugby, 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."
While being dropped from the All Blacks knocked his confidence around, Savea says it is just another one of the challenges he has to work hard to overcome.
"I guess it can play a lot on your mind," Savea says.
"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."
While thoughts of a code switch form part of his decision making process, in the immediate future he is happy to stay where he is. The lure of a big pay-day in European rugby also looms as a possibility.
"Definitely, that's for sure, that's the plan, don't know when," Savea said.
"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."
