Luke McAlister's hopes of returning to the All Blacks have suffered a set-back after coach Graham Henry criticised his move to Europe.
Henry criticises McAlister's move to Europe
Luke McAlister's hopes of breaking back in the All Blacks team have suffered a set-back after coach Graham Henry criticised his move to Europe.
McAlister has been in sensational form for Sale - and was the man-of-the-match in the stunning win at Clermont in the opening round of Heineken Cup fixtures.
But while the pundits have been hailing the performances of the 25-year-old, Henry remains distinctly unimpressed.
McAlister is rumoured to be set to return to New Zealand at the end of his current deal with the Sharks.
However Henry claims there are no guarantees that he will add to his 22 caps.
"I think it will be good for him as an individual and when he returns to these islands he'll be a well-rounded person, but I don't know if he's going to be a better rugby player," said Henry.
"Maybe those experiences of playing in those countries will help but whether it's going to help his rugby development, I'm not sure.
"There's big talk he's going to return to New Zealand, that he's going to return reasonably soon.
"There's no guarantee he's going to return to the All Blacks - he has to be good enough to do that."
The All Blacks selection policy means that only players based in New Zealand can be selected for the national side, meaning McAlister would have to return if he is to play for his country again.
And Henry insists the policy is correct, claiming: "I totally agree with the current situation.
"I think it would decrease the value of New Zealand rugby if players can be selected for the All Blacks from overseas."
