Silver lining for Dagg after missed AB call-up

Israel Dagg's dream of a role in the All Blacks' World Cup squad has been shattered.

The Magpies will see the silver lining in their star fullback Israel Dagg being left out of the 2015 defence of the World Cup.

Dagg was the biggest omission from the squad announced in Parliament last night, with selectors opting for the X-factor of flying Fijian Waisake Naholo.

The 49-test veteran has found close-to-top form during his recent return to the Magpies but it was not enough to force himself into the 31-man squad.

Naholo's cup dream looked all but over in July, when he cracked his tibia bone against Argentina. However, traditional Fijian healing methods are credited with enabling the enigmatic Highlander and Taranaki ITM Cup player to play a part in the defence of the Webb Ellis.

While it is fair to argue Dagg, 27, has been a victim of depth, All Black legend and former New Zealand Rugby Union president Ian MacRae of Napier believes he has not received a fair go.

"I'm surprised and very disappointed he has missed out, because he is highly regarded in the job.

"Injury and a lack of opportunities have kept him out," MacRae said.

"I feel for him but at the same time I have no doubt he will force his way back."

In what was the most anticipated All Blacks announcement in history, plenty of quality and experience has missed out.

Charles Piutau, Cory Jane and Neopo Laulala are the other unlucky exclusions. Crusader Dagg was a star at the 2011 tournament, starting in four of the seven matches, and was the ABs' top tryscorer with five.

Highlander Ben Smith has had a stranglehold on the No15 jersey since 2013, forcing Dagg to battle for a cover position. Being a specialist fullback, Dagg was unable to compete with the likes of Smith and Colin Slade for versatility.

A lack of form in the past two seasons has seen him fall out of favour with All Black selectors, and the hot form of Hurricane Nehe Milner-Skudder and Naholo was impossible to ignore.

Dagg starred in the recent Air New Zealand promotion video, rapping alongside Stan Walker, which fuelled speculation he would make the World Cup cut.

His dream was shattered, however, and Dagg took to Twitter to voice his disappointment.

"Gutted to not be in the RWC2015 team but congrats and all the best @AllBlacks men. It's been a hell of a journey, cheers."