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'It's not up to me' – Akira Ioane unfazed by continued All Blacks snub

December 2, 2018

Despite strong performances for Auckland and the Blues, Ioane is yet to make his All Blacks debut.

Blues and Auckland number eight Akira Ioane has opened up about his continued overlooking at the hands of the All Blacks selectors, saying that he's happy to bide his time before debuting in the black jersey.

Despite strong form for both the Blues and Auckland, 23-year old Ioane has been a consistent omission from Steve Hansen's All Blacks sides, with the likes of Luke Whitelock chosen ahead of him as back up to Kieran Read.

However, despite this, Ioane is taking a relaxed approach to his future international career, saying that he's confident his time will come.

"I think about it all the time," Ioane told Marae.

"Then again, it's not up to me.

"All I can do is put my best foot forward, I felt like I did that this year, I didn't get it.

"I'm happy with that, he's (coach Steve Hansen) given me stuff to work on.

"I'm not one to shy away from a challenge, that's my motivation."

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