The New Zealand vice-captain Adam Blair says he was shocked at the Four Nations double snubbing of former skipper Roy Asotasi.
Asotasi, long considered one of the best props in the NRL, has twice been overlooked for the end-of-season tournament,
A controversial non-selection when the original 23-man squad was announced, Asotasi was snubbed again this week when Parramatta star Fuifui Moimoi was ruled out with a knee injury - with Kiwis coach Stephen Kearney opting for Penrith prop Sam McKendry instead.
Blair admits he was stunned to learn he would not be lining up alongside Asotasi.
The Kiwis play Samoa in their opening game on Saturday.
