Shields opts for England over All Blacks - report

Cape Town - Hurricanes flanker Brad Shields recently had an offer to join the All Blacks squad withdrawn after he revealed he'd be leaving for England.

According to The Telegraph, the former New Zealand U20 player was called up to the Test squad in Europe, but after informing selectors that he'd be joining Wasps at the end of Super Rugby 2018 the squad offer was withdrawn as it appears Shields wants to play for England.

Shields was set to replace injured Blues flanker Jerome Kaino in the squad but instead New Zealand went for Highlanders back-row Luke Whitelock, who led the side against the France XV in midweek. The All Blacks went on to win that fixture 28-23, under Whitelock's captaincy.

The Telegraph believes Shields, a Super Rugby winner, is wanted by Eddie Jones' England to rival 31-year-old blindside flanker Chris Robshaw.

Shields played New Zealand U20 rugby alongside Beauden Barrett, Sam Cane, Codie Taylor, Brodie Retallick and ex Wasps star Charles Piutau.