Rugby League: Kiwis convinced Paul will be ready for key series clash

LEEDS - The Kiwis are confident their star utility Robbie Paul will play in Sunday's series decider in Wigan despite suffering a deep gash above his right knee during the 14-14 draw at Huddersfield.

Paul was stretchered off after studs on Bradford clubmate Leon Pryce's boot opened a deep cut in the dying minutes of the clash.

The Kiwis' medical staff will gain a clearer picture of whether the five-eighth turned fullback will be available when training resumes tomorrow.

Paul had stitches inserted at the ground and was limping after the game. A team spokesman said the Bradford skipper was "walking around" comfortably yesterday as the Kiwis had a day off to reflect on their bruising second test encounter.

Utility forward David Solomona should also be available after skipping the second test with a chest/shoulder injury.

The New Zealanders will stick to their normal test build-up in Leeds and also train on Thursday and Friday before heading to Wigan on the day of the game.

Coach Gary Freeman said there was no temptation to change the formula with the Kiwis unbeaten tour record in danger: "I'm not going to lose focus on what's got us here so far."

Great Britain expect to have Sydney Roosters second rower Adrian Morley back at Wigan after he pulled out of the second test with the flu.

Although his physical presence was missed at times, Great Britain captain Andy Farrell was more than happy with the way that the team pulled together.

"David [Waite, Great Britain coach] asked us who was going to be the one to stand up and do Adrian's job - and you had 17 of them out there.

"We are pleased with the way we have grafted out there but it will be nice to have him back."

Meanwhile, the Kiwis have told the Rugby Football League they are not interested in jointly holding the Albert Baskiville Trophy should Great Britain win the third test.

RFL chairman Richard Lewis said management from both sides discussed what would happen to the new trophy should the series be drawn 1-1.

"After discussions with the Kiwis they have said Great Britain created the trophy so it's only fair the Kiwis should have to win it to take it away.

"We compliment them on their sporting attitude," he said.

- NZPA