Howlett eyes New Zealand return

Doug Howlett has not given up hope of lining out for New Zealand in the 2011 World Cup.

The former All Black winger's current deal with Munster expires at the end of the upcoming season and he has yet to decide whether to extend his stay in Ireland.

However, Howlett freely admits that he is tempted by the idea of returning home with the aim of forcing his way back into the All Blacks squad.

"Obviously the World Cup is a huge draw but it would have to be a family decision," he told the Evening Echo.

"I guess sitting down and being away from it for a while you wonder whether you would be good enough to get back in there (the New Zealand squad) for a start.

"But I'm off contract at the end of the season, so there are opportunities to get back and stake a claim."