Newcastle were also interested in signing the Slovenian, possibly to replace wantaway star Alexander Isak, a target for Liverpool.

The versatile back made the discovery after getting a call from New Zealand coach Scott Robertson this week telling him he was on the plane as injury cover for Caleb Clarke.

The 19-year-old, who had a horror time during Australia's recent senior tour of the West Indies, was the only incumbent Test player selected for two four-day games in Lucknow.

Fly-half Richie Mo'unga, who has played in 56 Tests for the All Blacks, left in 2023 to join Japanese club Toshiba Brave Lupus.