Savea to Rugby League?

Reports from New Zealand suggest that All Black and Hurricanes winger Julian Savea hasn't ruled out a shock switch to rugby league.

The blockbusting wing is contracted to New Zealand Rugby (NZR) until the end of 2019 but failed to nail down a position in the All Blacks squad in 2017.

The 27-year-old's record of 46 tries in 54 test appearances means he's bound to attract interest across the rugby codes when his contract comes up. "It's always been in the back of my mind," Savea told Newshub of a shift to rugby league.

"I haven't had any reason to leave rugby, [but] 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."

He appeared in just two of the All Blacks' 14 tests this year, scoring a try in the 78-0 victory over Samoa and then having a mixed time in the 15-15 draw with the British and Irish Lions. He wasn't required for The Rugby Championship or end-of-year tour, as Rieko Ioane established himself as New Zealand's premier left wing.

Savea was left to play provincial rugby for Wellington, who he helped win promotion to the national premiership for 2018.

"I guess [being dropped] can play a lot on your mind," Savea told Newshub.

"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?

"For me, I like the challenges. I've had adversity before, I just can't wait to get the season started."

Savea faces competition from players such as Wellington team-mate Wes Goosen for a starting spot with the Hurricanes next year. But he says he's in a great frame of mind, after wife Fatima gave birth to their first child earlier this month.