News

Masoe looks to escape

May 27 2008

Flanker Chris Masoe is so incensed at his omission from the All Blacks squad that he is looking to exercise a get-out clause in his NZRU contract.

Masoe, who has won 20 All Black caps, is still mulling over whether to head to Europe or switch codes to rugby league, and either one as soon as possible, after he found out of his squad omission by a voice message.

His manager Bruce Sharrock said of how the news was broken: "To be perfectly honest, they were voice messages so they haven't had the opportunity to talk to anyone."

Masoe is on contract until the end of 2008, but Sharrock said talks had begun of executing a get-out early clause in his contract.

"Chris has an option to get out," Sharrock said.

"We are talking already about the various options."

Masoe's omission - as with that of team-mate Piri Weepu - were the big surprises of the squad announced on Tuesday, after both players impressed during the latter stages of the Super 14.

Masoe was particularly impressive playing at number six when Jerry Collins was injured.

And Sharrock believes Masoe has been a victim of a major change in mind-set by the All Blacks' coaching staff.

"Chris has been there for three years and been an instrumental part. And his form has form has been OK but I think their mix is going to be somewhat different this year.

"After turning him into a utility, playing at 6, 7 and 8, I think they are now going for specialist 6s, 7s and 8s.

"He is a victim of a change of plan."