Nonu in sevens team, out of All Black trials

7.00pm

Hurricanes midfield back Ma'a Nonu will not be playing in the All Blacks rugby trials and will instead be playing for the New Zealand sevens team at the France and England tournaments.

New Zealand sevens coach Gordon Tietjens today named his team for the final two tournaments in this season's sevens circuit.

All Blacks coach Graham Henry said assistant coach Steve Hansen had spoken to Nonu and told him he would not be considered for the trials in Auckland on June 1.

"The All Blacks selectors felt that playing sevens was the best way for him to develop at the moment," Henry said.

"He is an outstanding talent but had an indifferent Super 12 season.

"Playing for the New Zealand sevens team will be the best way to build up his confidence, fitness and skill level."

The All Blacks trial teams will be announced on Monday.

Nonu is the only addition to the sevens squad which sees the return of Orene Ai'i and Chris Masoe.

Eric Rush and Roy Kinikinilau, were not considered because of injuries.

Liam Messam will captain the side for the first time.

"It's obviously very disappointing to lose Rushy to injury as he's such an inspiration," Tietjens said.

"But I'm confident that Liam can lead the team. We've got a very young team and Liam himself is only 20 but he has plenty of sevens experience.

"He leads from the front and is playing very, very well."

The team fly to France on Sunday, with the Bordeaux tournament on May 28-29 and the London tournament on June 4-5.

NZ sevens team: Orene Ai'i, Ma'a Nonu, Chris Masoe, Justin Wilson, Amasio Valence, Anthony Tuitavake, Liam Messam, Tafai Ioasa, Tanerau Latimer, Colin Bourke, Grant McQuoid, Sosene Anesi.

- NZPA