British and Irish Lions

However, the 20-year-old Bay of Plenty native, who starred in West Tigers' run to the Australian premiership title, admitted he was aiming primarily for a new contract at the Sydney club.

He told the Sunday Star Times: "I grew up playing rugby and always wanted to be an All Black, so it is definitely something I would look at in the future but not at the moment."

Meanwhile, Harbour forward Tom Harding will join his brother Sam in England after his province's NPC semi-final defeat to Auckland by moving to Worcester.

Harding, uncapped by the All Blacks, qualifies to represent both England and Wales.

One NPC star who is staying put in New Zealand is Wellington's Roy Kinikinilau although the utility back is out of contract with his province.

Super 14 rivals Highlanders and Chiefs are poised to move for the World Sevens-winning flyer.

Warren Gatland says he and his British & Irish Lions Test team are fully aware of the size of the threat posed by Qantas Wallabies wing Israel Folau this weekend.

Sam Warburton says he is 'absolutely delighted' after being chosen to lead The British & Irish Lions in Saturday's first Test match against the Qantas Wallabies.

Less than four kilometres away from the Suncorp Stadium, venue for the opening Test between the British & Irish Lions and Qantas Wallabies on Saturday, lies the grave of the man who took the starring role in the first international between the two teams in 1899.