Larger Kiwi squad might be named

Press, 25 June 1983, Page 60

Larger Kiwi squad might be named

Ry

JOHN COFFEY

Several stand-by players, in addition to the team proper, will probably be named by the New Zealand rugby league selectors when they meet in Auckland tomorrow to choose the side to oppose Australia at Brisbane on July 9. Graham Lowe, the Kiwi coach and one of the five selectors, said from Auckland yesterday that an enlarged squad would cover the possibility of injuries on the eve of the team’s departure for Brisbane. The Kiwis are to assemble in Brisbane on Monday, July 4. The previous weekend many of the candidates will be playing for their Sydney clubs or in two inter-districts fixtures in New Zealand. “It would be difficult for someone to arrange leave from his employment if he was not aware that he could be called upon,” said Mr Lowe. One of the first problems for the panel to clarify tomorrow will be the availability or otherwise of the

former Kiwi captain, Graeme West, who was a replacement during New Zealand’s loss to Australia in the first test. West announced after the test that he would not be available to travel to Brisbane, and that he intended to return to his British club, Wigan. Since then, West has been selected for Central Districts to meet Auckland on July 2 and has had discussions with the president of the New Zealand Rugby League, Mr Ron McGregor. “As far as I am concerned I have not been officially told that West is not available,” Mr Lowe said. “It is my view that the coach should not have to chase around after players.” “Of the 15 who were chosen for the first test, the only player definitely out of the running is Gary Kemble, who has gone back to England for treatment to his leg injury,” said Mr Lowe. “The main concern to me is that we have a team that can take full value of kicking opportunities, both for goal and tactically,” he said.