All Blacks coach Ian Foster has weighed in on Roger Tuivasa-Sheck's impending return to the NRL, revealing the cross-code star will still be considered for this year's Rugby World Cup.
The former Dally M Medal winner inked a three-year deal with the Warriors last week, ending his time in the 15-man game and returning to where he became a household name.
Tuivasa-Sheck remains contracted with the Auckland Blues for the remainder of the Super Rugby season and despite only making three appearances in the international arena to date, he will still be in the frame for selection.
Speaking on Sky Sport's The Breakdown, Foster praised RTS for handling the contract situation in a professional manner and didn't rule out a RWC appearance.
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“He’s a quality person and he did everything right, the way he went about it, so there’s nothing untoward in that regard,” he said.
“I fully understand his decision...I wish him well. In the meantime, he’s eligible for the All Blacks.
“We have complexities of contracts now, with people leaving, and quite frankly, the policy’s always been, if they’re available this year, they’re available.
“We’ve made that clear to Roger and I know he wants to give everything he can to make it.
"I’m disappointed he’s leaving because I’ve seen the growth in him....I thought at the start of Super Rugby, he took another step up and I was looking forward to seeing that continue.”
When is Roger Tuivasa-Sheck returning to NRL?
Roger Tuivasa-Sheck will make his return to the NRL for the 2024 season, signing a three-year deal with the New Zealand Warriors.
The star fullback played over 100 games for the club during his previous stint, helping them to the finals and winning the Dally M Medal back in 2018.
Will Roger Tuivasa-Sheck play in the Rugby World Cup?
Despite only playing three games for the All Blacks to date and signing with the Warriors for next year, Roger Tuivasa-Sheck will remain in contention for this year's Rugby World Cup according to head coach Ian Foster.
How old is Roger Tuivasa-Sheck?
Roger Tuivasa-Sheck is 29 years old, but will reach his 30th birthday prior to his return to rugby league.