You get the feeling that Ardie Savea's former All Blacks Sevens teammates aren't too happy with his decision to pull out of the Rio Olympics so late.
Today marks 100 days until the Games, and New Zealand Sevens veteran DJ Forbes is disappointed that Savea's no longer part of the squad.
"He's a good mate of mine, so I don't want to speculate too much, but I guess the timing is unfortunate," Forbes said.
"Like any athlete and rugby player he has his own inspirations and I can only wish him all the best.
"It provides another opportunity for someone else in the team or myself to try and claim that spot for the Olympics."
Ardie Savea (Photosport)
Forbes understands the longevity of committing to the 15-a-side game, but said the draw of an Olympic medal should've been a big factor.
"As far as I'm concerned, an Olympic opportunity should be the highest on anyone's career, but in terms of rugby, it probably does provide a bit more of an avenue going that way so you have to be mindful of that.
"In saying that, to be part of an Olympic occasion, it would be pretty hard to say no to something like that."
Forbes said an injury-hit season could have been a blessing in disguise to the New Zealand team with a number of players being exposed to tournament experience.
"We all know what he can do on a football field and I've played with him in Sevens before and he had a good couple tournaments in Wellington and Sydney.
"Like I said, the timing is not convenient, but I think we've managed to see a lot of players coming through our team this year and there is a bit more depth than normal. Hopefully we have the caliber of players to fill that spot."
Forbes said that contracts should be drawn up in future to prevent players pulling out of the squad.
The All Blacks Sevens have two more World Series tournaments in Paris and London next month before the Olympics in August.
Newshub.
