League: A Tri-ing time for McClennan

It's hardly surprising Kiwis coach Brian McClennan is giving little away when it comes to his Tri-Nations squad considering the list of those available seems to be changing daily.

As debate rages about whether electrifying Tigers five-eighths Benji Marshall will shoulder the burden of an international campaign, two more contenders have been added to the ever-increasing doubtful list.

Wantaway winger Francis Meli has ruled himself out of contention, preferring to have a break before he joins up with UK Super League side St Helens next season, while Tigers utility back Dene Halatau also needs a shoulder operation.

The 23-year-old Halatau has revealed he has been carrying a torn tendon on the rotator cuff since last year's Tri-Nations and needs six months to recover once he goes under the knife.

"I will get scanned again as soon as the Tigers finish and consult the Tigers and Kiwis doctors, but I won't risk it if it could shorten my career," Halatau said.

Although McClennan had been hopeful both Sonny Bill Williams and Thomas Leuluai would be fit in time for the Tri-Nations, he has given up hope on the pair. It's been partly offset by the return of Stacey Jones, Tony Puletua and Joe Galuvao.

- HERALD ON SUNDAY