League: Kiwis Tri-Nations squad named

Brian McClennan

The Kiwis rugby league squad to play Australia and Great Britain in the Tri-Nations tournament were named today by coach Brain McClennan.

The 24-man squad feature five new caps -- Melbourne Storm prop Adam Blair, New Zealand Warriors utility forward Epalahame Lauaki, plus centres Simon Mannering (Warriors), Steve Matai (Manly) and Isoia Soliola (Sydney Roosters).

Soliola was first selected for the Kiwis' Tri-Nations squad last year but had to withdraw due to a knee injury.

The Kiwis open the defence of their crown against the Kangaroos in Auckland on October 14.

They play the return match against Australia in Melbourne on October 21 and then have games against Great Britain in Christchurch (October 28) and Wellington (November 11).

Kiwis: Roy Asotasi, Adam Blair, Jason Cayless, Nathan Cayless, David Fa'alogo, Awen Guttenbeil, Dene Halatau, Shontayne Hape, Stacey Jones, David Kidwell, Epalahame Lauaki, Simon Mannering, Steve Matai, Frank Pritchard, Tony Puletua, Jerome Ropati, Iosia Soliola, David Solomona, Motu Tony, Tame Tupou, Manu Vatuvei, Nigel Vagana, Brent Webb, Ruben Wiki (captain).

- NZPA