Hansen claims All Black European exiles lacking ‘mental fortitude’

All Black coach Steve Hansen has accused players who have left New Zealand to play in Ireland and other European countries as lacking “mental fortitude” while the country’s main newspaper has claimed future Irish teams will not be Irish.

The New Zealand Herald interviewed Hansen following Chiefs back Bundee Aki’s decision to commit his future to Ireland by signing a three-year deal with Connacht following Nathan White and Jared Payne’s move to Ireland.

“It is frustrating and it is disappointing,” said Hansen. “Players here have a dream of playing for the All Blacks and then they suddenly give it up when an easier option comes along.