Howlett throws Munster future into doubt

MUNSTER fans are sweating over the future of All Black legend Doug Howlett with the province after the New Zealander admitted he has unfinished business at international level.

Howlett’s two and half year deal with Munster expires next summer and New Zealand’s record Test try scorer admits playing for the All Blacks in the 2011 Rugby World Cup at home would be “a huge draw-card”.

Howlett is believed to be one of three overseas New Zealand players on the radar of the All Black selectors when planning for their 2011 World Cup begins after this year’s Tri-Nations campaign.

“I’m off contract at the end of the season, so there are opportunities to get back and stake a claim,” admitted Howlett in an interview published today. “If myself and the family saw fit, we’d return in time for a provincial season and the Super 14 to stake a claim if that’s the way we’d go.”

He added: “Obviously the World Cup is a huge draw-card, but again it would be a family decision. We’re really enjoying our rugby here and it’s a great place to play. As we saw with Rua (Tipoki), it’s a tough place to leave. Yes, it will be a tough decision.”