It's ten years since Doug Howlett became the All Blacks' all-time top try scorer, reaching 49 tries at the 2007 World Cup.
Below Howlett on the All Blacks list are three players on 46 tries: Christian Cullen, whose record Howlett beat, along with Joe Rokocoko and Julian Savea.
Rokocoko retired in 2010 but Savea - who is just 27 - has Howlett's record well within his sights. That is if winger can work his way back into Steve Hansen's favour. Savea was recently omitted from the All Blacks squad for the Rugby Championship and the November Internationals. He actually lined out for the Barbarians against the All Blacks at Twickenham earlier this month.
Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live's Rugby Union Weekly podcast, Howlett revealed that he tried to get Munster to sign Savea.
"I’ve tried to talk Munster into signing Julian Savea and getting him up here but at this stage, it’s not a position we’re looking for," said Howlett, who is now Munster's Head of Commercial and Marketing.
Howlett joked that he may have had an ulterior motive for wanting Munster to sign the Hurricanes player. Savea moving to the northern hemisphere would have ended his chances of playing for the All Blacks.
It’s not in my job description but, obviously, with my track record and understanding of the New Zealand environment, I am asked my opinion. And when it comes to someone who’s chasing a record of yours down in New Zealand, I gave them the full thumbs up and tried my best to get him here but it wasn’t to be.
I’ll enjoy (the record) while I can. It’s been 10 years and I think it’s about time that somebody comes along and takes this. If it’s Julian, I’d be happy for him.
