Francis Saili puts Munster commitments first

At 24, Francis Saili has time on his side to kick-start an international career that was honed in helping his country win a World U20 title before he gained two senior caps for current world champions New Zealand.

However, if returning home to challenge for a regular place within the All Blacks squad is in his thoughts down the line, for now, Saili is thinking only of Munster and what he can do in Ireland for the next two seasons at least, starting with the trip to face Scarlets tomorrow (7.05pm, Parc y Scarlets).

Playing for the All Blacks — who face South Africa in the World Cup semi-final this weekend — is still on his radar though, and he admitted so this week. “It is in the back of my mind, definitely. In saying that, first and foremost my job is here (at Munster).