New Zealand Rugby chief executive Steve Tew has poured cold water on Brad Shields' availability for England's June tour of South Africa.
Hurricanes captain Shields, who qualifies for England through his parents, will join Wasps after the Super Rugby season ends in August, which prompted speculation he will play a part for England against the Springboks.
The 27-year-old was reported to be available for selection by Eddie Jones, despite still being contracted to New Zealand Rugby and having a number of Hurricanes games after the June Tests, but Tew begged to differ.
"I don't think you should jump to the conclusion that he will be available from our point of view," Tew told the New Zealand Herald.
"He has signed to New Zealand and he is contracted to play for New Zealand teams until the end of Super Rugby."
The Hurricanes have three regular season games and up to three playoff matches after the June international window.
NZR granted a release to England-born fly-half Piers Francis for England's tour of Argentina last June, excusing him from a Blues game before he linked up with Northampton Saints.
Shields, however, was a New Zealander, Tew said.
"We have a New Zealand player who is contracted to be here until the end of that competition and that would be our expectation," he said.
"We are obligated to release players who have signed to play for other countries so they have made themselves unavailable for New Zealand.
"We always make sure that occurs and that is of particular relevance to the Pacific countries.
"But in this instance, Brad has signed a contract that makes him available for New Zealand teams."