Neemia Tialata has admitted he was stunned to be left out of the All Blacks squad to face Australia.
Tialata determined to prove himself after losing All Blacks place
New Zealand prop Neemia Tialata has admitted he was stunned to be left out of the squad for the upcoming Tri-Nations clash against Australia.
The 27-year-old, who has played in 36 Tests, was omitted from the 26-man Bledisloe Cup squad to head to Sydney this weekend, with coach Graham Henry saying he needs more 'game fitness'.
Tialata appeared for the Wellington B team at Waikanae on Saturday as he looks to get back into shape, and he says he has found it difficult to cope with the rejection.
"It was a shock, especially being told you are fifth prop, which is basically where I lie," he said.
"It's quite hard to take, but these things happen and you've got to move on.
"They haven't told me any reasons why I've been dropped. They've just told me I've been lacking game time and to come down here (to Wellington) and get some game time.
"That's basically been it."
He added: "It's been frustrating just not knowing where I stand - not being needed for the All Blacks and then not being needed down here (with Wellington)."
Opportunity
Tialata has now forced his way back onto the Wellington reserves bench for their Ranfurly Shield match with Auckland, however, and he is excited at the prospect.
"I've got a big game to prepare for this weekend and I'm just delighted to be back," he said.
"(Wellington coach Jamie Joseph) has just told me to get out there and play footy and have fun and that's what I want to do.
"I'm delighted to be back and to be given the opportunity to play a big game this weekend as well and show everyone what I've got."
