The All Blacks flanker Liam Squire has addressed the issue of why he turned down the All Blacks earlier this year.
Liam Squire Photo: Photosport
Before the Rugby Championship the Highlanders loosie told All Blacks coach Steve Hansen he wasn't ready for Test rugby and this week he was left out of the World Cup squad.
On social media Squire has opened up about what he's been going through, saying he didn't feel "physically or mentally" ready for the pressures of test rugby.
"After what has been a really tough year for me mentally and physically, and after speaking with people I trust on whether I should make myself available again for the All Blacks, I felt I wasn't ready just yet physically or mentally for the pressures of test match rugby," Squire wrote on Instagram.
"I feel I need to earn the right to pull on the Black jersey again through performing well for my beloved Tasman Mako and keep ticking the boxes there.
"As Steve said yesterday, if the All Blacks do get injuries, and I'm performing well enough, then I'm 100% available. The decision has been bloody hard but I feel it's the best one for me and the All Blacks. I wish the team every success and am behind them 100%.
"I have never been one to speak a lot publicly so I hope people can respect my privacy and decision on this and I can move forward and keep enjoying my rugby.
"For me mental health is a lot more important than playing rugby."
Instagram Liam Squire Photo: Instagram
Squire will continue to play for Tasman in provincial rugby