All Blacks centre Malakai Fekitoa has opened up about an anger management problem.
In an apparently unprompted posting on social media, the 13-Test All Black apologised to those he has hurt through an inability to handle his emotions.
It is unclear what incidents the 23-year-old is referring to but says he is ashamed of his actions and vows not to repeat them.
"I've got a huge problem with anger," Fekitoa wrote on Instagram.
"I don't handle some situation very well on and off the field. I get really angry sometimes and flip out so I would like to Apologize publicly to any of you if I ever said something really hurtful to you at home, on the field and through social media."
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Tongan-born Fekitoa moved to Auckland aged 17 to take up a college rugby scholarship.
He represented Auckland and the Blues before a career-defining move to the Highlanders which resulted in an All Blacks call-up in 2014.
He is considered to have the inside running this year to replace veteran centre Conrad Smith, who has taken up a French club contract.
Fekitoa told his 173,000 Instagram followers he be a better person in 2016.
"I'm ashamed and regretful, Lesson learnt," he wrote.
"I suggest that no matter how old you are or who you are. Whatever it is. You need to speak to someone about it. Your feelings and what's inside you. Its never bad until it will cost you. #CallOutForHelp."
