Kurt Baker and Sherwin Stowers have been named in the New Zealand sevens training squad after missing out on Super Rugby contracts.
Many expressed surprise Stowers did not earn a contract after being overlooked by new Blues coach Sir John Kirwan but sevens coach Gordon Tietjens was quick to include the former Commonwealth Games gold medallist in a 22-man group to assemble in Mt Maunganui next week to prepare for the next two IRB series events in Dubai and Port Elizabeth.
Auckland wing Ben Lam, another player not wanted at the Blues, has also been included along with Baker.
Baker won't be attending the camp as he's currently in the UK with the New Zealand Maori but will still be considered for the final 12-man squad, which will be announced on Thursday.
Toby Arnold and Mark Jackman were not considered due to injury.
