No Ulster regrets for Payne

The former New Zealand under-21 representative joined Ulster from Super Rugby side Blues in 2011, scoring nine tries in 39 PRO12 appearances to date.

Payne has proved vital for the Ulstermen and, after hitting the ground running this season, earned himself a starting berth in Joe Schmidt's side to take on South Africa.

And it is a debut Payne intends to savour as he begins a new chapter in his career.

"It was a huge decision for me to take as by agreeing to move to Ulster I was saying goodbye to the possibility of playing for the All Blacks," said the 29-year-old. "However, in the end I decided why not take the chance.

"I don't think I would say I've been waiting for this (selection) as to me you can't wait for things to happen otherwise they pass you by.

"Now that it has happened I am really stoked and very proud. This is a great opportunity for me and I intend to take it."

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