Joe Rokocoko knew his fate the moment he saw a missed call from All Blacks coach, Graham Henry on his phone on Saturday night.

All Blacks players of Rokocoko's calibre - 45 tries in 60 tests over the last 7 years, don’t get calls telling them, they are in the team.

They, however, are worthy of a courtesy call when the axe is about to drop. Or, as Rokocoko puts it, the bullet is about to find its mark.

Rokocoko said he was always dodging bullets but this bullet came and hit him straight on the head.

He added that nowadays when you get a call it is not to say you've made the team.

It is to say you've missed out.

Rokocoko said when he arrived home and saw the missed call from Henry he knew what the outcome was.

The All Blacks will play Australia in Tokyo on October 31 followed by Tests against Wales, Italy, England and France.

The tour concludes with a match against the Barbarians in London on December 6.