Twickenham were keen suitors when Flutey qualified for England on residency grounds, spotting a welcome solution to the problem inside centre position.

The Wasps back, voted last season's player of the year by his fellow professionals, featured at all age grades for New Zealand and also represented the Maori.

Indecision followed as Flutey considered his options, with the words of former London Irish team-mate Jarrod Cunningham leaving an impression.

But Flutey's ambition drove him into English arms and when uncompromising former All Blacks hooker Norm Hewitt sent a note of support, any lingering doubt was swept away.

"I've no regrets whatsoever with the decision I made to represent England," said the 28-year-old. "A year ago when it was being talked about there were mixed thoughts running through my mind.

"I though of Jarrod Cunningham, a good mate of mine who I played with in New Zealand and whose opinion I respected. I knew what he went through.

"He was asked to play for England as well but turned it down and said he would never wear the rose.

"I thought about it knowing I didn't get the opportunity to play for New Zealand at the highest level.

"To get the chance to play at the highest level and test myself against the best players in the world is fantastic.”

Flutey continued: "Generally the reaction in New Zealand has been fantastic. You do get the odd one or two text messages saying ‘what are you up to’, but the people who mean a lot are really supportive.

"One opinion in particular that I respect is Norm Hewitt's. He sent a lovely e-mail wishing me all the best and giving his blessing.

"He was a person I looked up to as a leader and a player. When I first saw the e-mail from him I thought ‘oh heck, he might say something about wearing the England jersey’.

"But he told me to go and grab it with both hands and to do my best. To get comments like that was a real boost.

"Not once have I thought, 'shucks, what have I done? I'm a Kiwi'. I have no regrets whatsoever. I'm proud to wear my England training kit and hopefully I'll get to pull on the jersey as well."

The first opportunity for Flutey to make his Test debut is when England's punishing autumn schedule opens against the Pacific Islands on November 8.