Wellington: Rising All Blacks star Charles Piutau may have sold his World Cup berth for NZ$1 million (Dh2.74 million) with coach Steve Hansen indicating he could be ignored for accepting a lucrative European deal.
The 23-year-old full-back has signed a two-year contract to join Irish club Ulster in July 2016, nearly a year after the World Cup.
But Hansen said he was “extremely disappointed” Piutau planned to leave and said “commitment” would be a factor when determining the squad that will defend New Zealand’s world crown in England later this year.
“Does it make him ineligible for the World Cup? No it doesn’t. But it does make it harder for him,” Hansen told Fairfax Media on Thursday.
“He’s going to have to play really, really well. We’ve got a duty to pick the best team but at the same time if two guys are vying for one spot then things like commitment and experience come into it.
“Not only are you picking for today but you’re also picking for tomorrow. That’s what we’ve done with him for three years.”
The Auckland Blues full-back, who can also cover wing and centre, is contesting an already congested role in the All Blacks, which includes Israel Dagg, Julian Savea, Ben Smith and Cory Jane.
