New Zealand back row Rodney So¿oialo has been included in the Barbarians side to play England and Ireland.
New Zealand forward unlikely to make June Tests
New Zealand back row Rodney So'oialo has been included in the Barbarians side to play England and Ireland, suggesting he will miss the All Blacks' June Tests.
Graham Henry's side will face Ireland on June 12 before contesting two matches with Wales over the following weekends.
It would seem unlikely that So'oialo, who has been capped 62 times by his country, will feature in those encounters after joining the invitational Barbarians side in London for matches against England and Ireland.
However, New Zealand coach Henry has denied that the trip means he is permanently out of contention for a place in the national squad.
"We have the utmost respect for Rodney and his commitment to the black jersey and he goes with our blessing," he said.
"However, it's important to note that he is by no means out of our thinking when it comes to future selection."
Out of favour
So'oialo made his 100th appearance in Super rugby earlier this month but has found himself out of favour behind Crusaders' number eight Kieran Read in the international pecking order.
The 30-year-old was last a regular fixture in the side at the start of the 2009 Tri-Nations before losing out to Read in the latter stages of that competition and the end of year tour.
But So'oialo is hoping to impress with the Baa-Baas as he tries to get back in contention with the national squad ahead of the Tri-Nations and next year's World Cup.
He said: "I'm looking forward to playing the two games against some quality opposition.
"I know what I need to do to work on my game and will continue to push for All Blacks selection.
"I am very honoured to receive this invitation and appreciate the temporary release from the New Zealand Rugby Union to enable me to accept it.
"Playing for or against the Baa-Baas is part of the special tradition of the international game and all players and rugby nations value that special opportunity."
Henry will name his 26-man squad for the June Tests on Sunday.
