Test debut fuels All Black's bid to escape Newcastle contract
REACTION: Fehi Fineanganofo’s memorable All Blacks debut against France has reinforced his determination to stay in New Zealand, with his agent continuing to work on a release from his Newcastle contract to keep his World Cup hopes alive.
New Zealand’s newest wing admitted he was so nervous ahead of his debut against France on Saturday that he vomited in the changing room.
Fineanganofo was on the All Blacks bench for their 34-32 win over France and came on for the final 11 minutes in place of left wing Caleb Clarke.
But that was only after he overcame a serious bout of stomach-churning nerves.
“I was sitting on the bench and nearly vomiting,” Fineanganofo said.
“I was like, I’m not even on the field yet, I can’t imagine what it’ll be like when I am on the field.”
That was during the first half, as he watched New Zealand earn a 19-13 lead at the break.
The anticipation built during coach Dave Rennie’s team talk at the break, and then the cork popped.
“At half-time, I was in the toilet, spewing,” he said.
“I felt better after.”
It sure was a close one 😬https://t.co/5B6DzPvNjH
🌐#Rugby365 #NZLvFRA #NationsChampionship
— Rugby365 (@rugby365com) July 4, 2026
The Hurricanes wing broke the single season try-scoring record in Super Rugby this year, with 17, to thrust himself into the All Blacks reckoning
But he had already signed a contract to play for English club Newcastle from the end of November and New Zealanders playing overseas are ineligible to play for the All Blacks.
Fineanganofo’s agent is now working to extricate him from the contract with Newcastle to allow him the chance of playing for New Zealand at next year’s World Cup.
As of Saturday night there was no change in the contract situation, but the 23-year-old said family had helped him realise that he wanted to stay in New Zealand.
Fineanganofo held back tears as he talked to reporters with a homemade plastic “lolly necklace” draped over his shoulders after his debut.
“It’s kind of a Tongan or Polynesian thing just to celebrate achievement,” he said of the necklace, which was adorned with chocolates and sweets.
“Sadly I can’t have any of these because I’m watching my weight, so I’ll give them to the boys.
“All my family, parents, they couldn’t stop crying and I was just trying to keep it strong and not cry outside,” he added.
“I’ll cry back in the changing room.”
Rennie will have a decision to make in the coming Tests against Italy and Ireland, with Fineanganofo showing flashes of his speed and agility, while Clarke had a mixed game as the starter.
Captain Ardie Savea laughed when told of Fineanganofo’s half-time bathroom stop, and said he had done his family proud.
“The guys that played their first Test match were outstanding,” Savea said.
“They came on, did their job and had a few good carries so I’m just really pleased for them and their families.”
