The more things change. Quote from 2011 NZ Press:
"A disloyal McAlister wants to cut all ties and turn his back on North Harbour, New Zealand Maori and, potentially, adding to his 30-test All Black career after being left out of the Tri Nations squad.
One day after the All Blacks were named, a disgruntled McAlister failed to front for Harbour training. Frantic calls from the provincial union, seeking his whereabouts, have since gone unanswered.
Luke's father and agent, Charlie, attempted a smokescreen with the excuse Luke was caring for his ill son, who has a heart condition, saying it had been a "hell of a time in hospital the last 10 days".
The next day, however, Charlie told NZRU general manager of professional rugby Neil Sorensen Luke wanted out, immediately, to take up a lucrative three-year deal in France."
"Charlie has asked for Luke to be released early to join Toulouse. He doesn't want to play ITM Cup," said Sorensen, who did not buy Charlie's explanation for Luke's absence.
McAlister has shunned New Zealand for overseas offers before. It now appears the NZRU are resenting moving mountains to bring him back from a two-year stint with Sale Sharks after the 2007 World Cup.