League: Meli latest to be ruled out of test

The Kiwis are frantically trying to pull together a team in time for Wednesday morning's (NZ time) test match against Great Britain at St Helens.

This comes after the late withdrawal of winger Francis Meli who has injured his leg while playing for his UK Super League club.

Kiwis manager Peter Leitch says until Meli has a scan, they are unsure exactly what the problem is, but they do know he is unavailable for the next few weeks at least.

Peter Leitch says it is a major blow to the side, and coach Brian McClennan is looking to see if there is anyone else he can bring into the squad.

KIWIS LEAGUE TEAM

Backs: Clinton Toopi (NZ Warriors), Lesley Vainikolo (Bradford), Henry Fa'afili (Warrington), Shantayne Hape (Bradford), Vinnie Anderson (St Helens), Willie Talau (St Helens), Ben Roberts (Canterbury), Robbie Paul (Huddersfield), Stacey Jones (Le Catalans, captain)

Forwards: Willy Poching (Leeds), David Solomona (Wakefield), David Kidwell (Melbourne), Ali Lauitiiti (Leeds), Harrison Hanson (Wigan), Iafeta Paleaeesina (Wigan), Alex Chan (Le Catalans), Monty Betham (Wakefield), Motu Tony (Hull).

- NZPA, NEWSTALK ZB