Mixed results for Tasman Mako in All Blacks selection
Championship-winning Crusaders captain David Havili has been dropped from the All Blacks. Photo: Supplied.
David Havili is experiencing the highs and lows of his rugby career today.
Just hours before leading the Crusaders Super Rugby Championship parade in Christchurch, the team captain was omitted from the first All Blacks squad of the year.
Thirty-five players were named and there was no place for 30-year-old David nor his Mako and Crusaders teammate Ethan Blackadder.
Utility back David has played 30 tests since his international debut in 2017.
Fellow 30-year-old Ethan, a vice-captain for the Crusaders, had played 14 tests as a loose forward in a career dogged by injuries.
While they have been discarded from last year’s All Blacks ranks, another Mako utility back Timoci Tavatavanawai has been selected for the first time.
Last year, the Fijian-born player had been coy when asked about his eligibility.
The 27-year-old, known as “Jim the Bus” or “the difference”, had an outstanding personal Super Rugby campaign for the underwhelming Highlanders which he captained.
He was one of five uncapped players named in the squad for next month’s home series against France.
Prop Tyrel Lomax, halfback Noah Hotham and outside back Will Jordan are Tasman players to keep their spots in the All Blacks.