Hurricanes set sights on McAlister

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The Hurricanes have extended a hand to returning All Black Luke McAlister.

The 25-year-old announced yesterday he was returning to New Zealand in May after two years with the Sale Sharks in England, and the Hurricanes wasted no time in phoning his agent.

"As is the case with all players of world-class experience and potential, we would be interested should Luke be interested in coming to a union within the Hurricanes," franchise chief executive Greg Peters said.

"We understand he has a strong pull to the Auckland area with his family and to North Harbour, but we have indicated to him that as in the past we would be more than happy to have him playing here."

It would not be the first time the Hurricanes have made a play for the former All Black first or second-five eighths who headed overseas at the end of 2007, but has now re-signed with the NZRU through to the end of 2012.

Wellington unsuccessfully chased McAlister's signature before he left. The prospect of him running a backline outside halfback Piri Weepu and inside Ma'a Nonu and Conrad Smith has lost none of its appeal.

McAlister's young daughter lives in Auckland, as do his parents. He was making no commitments after announcing his decision other than emphasising his wish to be closer to his family.

NZRU chief executive Steve Tew said his provincial or Super 14 playing future would be discussed after McAlister returned to New Zealand.

The next question is how quickly All Blacks coach Graham Henry will rush his former playmaker back into the test arena.

NZRU rules state McAlister must have played in the Air New Zealand Cup to be eligible for the All Blacks. That competition does not start till July 31, making the end-of-year tour the logical place for him to add to his 22-test career.

But Henry did not discount the prospect of an earlier return for the June tests against Italy and France, or the Tri- Nations, provided the NZRU board granted him dispensation.

"That is a possibility, but it hasn't even been thought of. Look, it's happened before. He will play rugby in New Zealand this year," he said.

Henry is clearly keen though to bring McAlister back into the fold, revealing he spent time with the squad last November in the buildup to the English test.

Henry believed more high-profile players would return to New Zealand rugby in the near future.

"They enjoy playing here. Obviously the All Black jersey is a big incentive and they enjoy the lifestyle. I don't think people realise how difficult it is to change that lifestyle to something that's not as good."

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- © Fairfax NZ News