Chris Masoe feasting on rugby

A storming NPC rugby season could lead to an All Black call-up for Taranaki's Chris Masoe. Picture / Mark Mitchell

Taranaki loose forward Chris Masoe is reaping the rewards of a better diet, and a storming NPC rugby season could be the entree to an All Black call-up.

Taranaki coach Kieran Crowley is leading calls for Masoe to be included in Graham Henry's end of year tour squad.

"He can cover all three positions and if that's the sort of player they are after they just have to (take him)," Crowley said after Masoe put an exclamation mark on his season against Wellington on Friday night.

Even Wellington coach John Plumtree could not help but be impressed with what he saw in New Plymouth after his team won 31-17.

"He's a handful, isn't he. He's another guy who clearly is in the frame.

"I think he will probably go on the end of year tour...I'm glad he's coming to Wellington next year," Plumtree said.

Masoe's play has improved noticeably this year and an outstanding Super 12 with the Hurricanes was rewarded with an All Black trial and selection in the Junior All Blacks.

Masoe, 26, puts his improved form down to improved fitness and nutrition.

"I'm a lot more involved in the game now. My fitness is up there so I'm more involved in getting turnover ball and hitting rucks," he said.

"I haven't done too much different I've just been watching what I eat. When you eat McDonald's hard out all the time it's hard. I've come down to Subway and salads."

Masoe's All Blacks chances will depend on whether the selectors opt for a specialist loose forward or a utility.

Richie McCaw, Jerry Collins, Rodney So'oialo, Marty Holah and Sione Lauaki are virtual certainties with probably two more to join them.

Masoe's main rivals are likely to be North Harbour's Nick Williams, Canterbury's Mose Tuiali'i and Aucklander Jerome Kaino.

Tuiali'i made a strong case for inclusion in Canterbury's Ranfurly Shield win against Auckland yesterday, probably ending Brad Mika's slim hopes.

But Henry may have to go looking for Masoe should he include him in the 35-man tour squad.

"I'm just looking forward to the break. We'll see what happens on the 23rd (of October).

"I won't be listening for my name. I'll probably be out fishing or playing golf," Masoe said.

Considering his current fortunes it seems strange Masoe is leaving Taranaki for Wellington next year.

But he said shifting to the capital was not just a career move.

"There was that, but the rest was the family. I've got a little one (daughter Sarah) at school. Six months in Wellington and six months here (in New Plymouth) is pretty hard on mumsie (wife Renee)."

Dad may just be away for a month this November.

- NZPA