Star utility back Shaun Stevenson is set to stick out the remainder of his Chiefs contract despite interest from Wayne Bennett’s Dolphins in the NRL.
The 25-year-old has found himself at the centre of conversation around a potential code switch after the legendary coach revealed his interest in converting him to the 13-man game.
Stevenson’s potential move came to light following his shock omission from the inaugural All Blacks XV side, many believing his chances of making the 2023 World Cup squad have now been quashed.
However, with one year remaining on his New Zealand Rugby contract and the desire to live out his All Blacks dream, Stevenson has cleared the air on his future intentions.
“I had a call from Wayne,” Stevenson told the Aotearoa Rugby Pod.
“This is arguably the best league coach in this generation. It was obviously a bit daunting, but it was cool just to chew the fat; good to have a chat with the GOAT.
“I guess it is an option after 2023. My skillset, I feel, would suit it in a way and obviously playing touch and tag back in school days, it’s similar to that.
"It's one of those things that quite a few boys want to give a crack, but they talk about it and never do. So never say never."
It is understood the appeal of a guaranteed starting role for the Chiefs influenced the playmaker's decision, with coach Clayton McMillan telling Stuff: “At his best, (he) is a starter in our back three.”
While several players have expressed an interest in the NRL, including high-profile All Blacks Jordie Barrett, TJ Perenara and Caleb Clarke, Stuff senior sportswriter David Long says something feels different about Stevenson’s situation.
“We always hear names thrown up about players looking at the NRL and then not long afterwards they sign a bigger contract with New Zealand Rugby, but I think this case is a bit different,” Long told SENZ Mornings.
“Shaun’s definitely got the skillset to be a very good player in the NRL, you can see him slotting in at fullback pretty well.”
Stevenson plans to see his NZR contract through to the end of 2023 where he will review his options for the 2024 season.