League: Fien chance to get into Kiwis

Former Queensland league representative Nathan Fien believes versatility was the key to his selection for the Kiwis' initial train-on squad named yesterday.

Fien, 27, is one of 11 New Zealand Warriors in the 19-man squad, which will be added to as teams are eliminated from the National Rugby League and English Super League competitions.

After beginning his second year with the Warriors in his usual position in the halves, he was switched to dummy half a third of the way into the season.

"I'm playing hooker at the Warriors, but I've played halfback and five-eighth," he said. "I guess it just covers a lot more bases."

Fien said he first thought about throwing his lot in with the Kiwis after New Zealand's Tri-Nations triumph at the end of last year.

His family had settled well in New Zealand and his daughter was born on this side of the Tasman last year.

He had discussed the issue with Kiwis skipper and clubmate Ruben Wiki and had come away convinced.

"It's just something I would love to be part of and I can't wait," he said.

"But the Aussie boys have been giving me a bit of ribbing."

Fien played one State of Origin match in 2001.

Despite questions about his eligibility for New Zealand, raised by the Australian Rugby League, Fien said he qualified through his paternal grandmother, who was born in Wanganui.

If picked for the Kiwis he will follow in the footsteps of fellow-Warrior and Queenslander Brent Webb.

Fullback Webb, who will play for Leeds in the English Super League next year, has made 11 test appearances for the Kiwis since 2004.

Kiwis coach Brian McClennan said Fien had earned his inclusion through his form for the Warriors.

The train-on squad will provide players for the Kiwis' defence of the Tri-Nations title next month and November, and for the New Zealand A side to play Australia A in Melbourne on October 21.

McClennan said the door was not closed on any player, apart from North Queensland hooker David Faiumu, who needed surgery for a groin injury.

"We have kept the squad tight at the moment," he said.

"Once we have confirmed fitness and seen who becomes available as clubs exit the playoffs, we'll make further judgments about who might be needed for the final mix."

McClennan said the make-up of the squad was a little different this year, because there was an age limit on the New Zealand A side this time, instead of being open.

Kiwis squad

Patrick Ah Van, Louis Anderson, Nathan Fien, Epalahame Lauaki, Simon Mannering, Sam Rapira, Jerome Ropati, Evarn Tuimavave, Manu Vatuvei, Brent Webb, Ruben Wiki (New Zealand Warriors); Iosia Soliola (Sydney Roosters); Frank Pritchard, Tony Puletua (Penrith); Nigel Vagana (Cronulla); David Fa'alogo (South Sydney); Dene Halatau, Paul Whatuira, Rangi Chase (Wests Tigers).

- NZPA