Rugby: Matt Duffie rapt and ready for cooler climes with call-up to the ABs

Matt Duffie in action. Photo / Photosport.nz

Matt Duffie was scrambling to contact his travel agent on Monday after being named in the All Blacks' northern test tour squad.

The Blues and North Harbour wing, expecting a pass from coach Steve Hansen, had booked himself a holiday in Rarotonga.

Yet rather than the Polynesian warmth, he'll now prepare for a chilly European autumn and the prospect of tests against France, Scotland and Wales.

Despite a solid Super Rugby campaign and star turn for Harbour at the provincial level, the 27-year-old said he was shocked by the call-up.

It was the culmination of a long-held dream.

Duffie had defected from league and the Melbourne Storm at the start of 2016, hoping to push his way into an All Blacks jumper.

He could also become a dual international, having played for the Kiwis in 2011.

"It's awesome, it's one of those things that you never really think is going to happen and you're lucky enough that it does," Duffie said.

"I'm very excited for the next month and what that holds.

"It's also nice for all the people who helped me along the way."

Duffie's achievement is made all the more remarkable by his horror run of injuries while at the Storm, including serious shoulder and knee problems.

Hansen said Duffie had adjusted to rugby with his cool temperament, finishing ability and accuracy in the air to come in handy on tour.

The head coach agreed there was something Ben Smith-esque about Duffie.

"He's done well, coming from the Storm after a lot of injuries - I know they didn't want him to go, they rated him very highly," he said.

- NZN