Rugby League: Lomu, Koopu have chance

By PETER JESSUP in SYDNEY

Roosters prop Andrew Lomu and Warriors second-rower Wairangi Koopu have the chance to play their way into the Kiwi team to play Australia on October 12 when they oppose each other in Sunday's NRL grand final.

Both have been put on notice by coach Gary Freeman after the final chance of Eels prop and Kiwi captain Nathan Cayless to play in the test was ended by the dismissal of an appeal to the Australian Rugby League over Cayless' three-match suspension.

Cayless has instead had the long-delayed knee surgery he was planning to put off until after the Kiwis' tour to England and France.

The Eels pleaded with Freeman that he be allowed sufficient time to have the operation and rehabilitation so as to be at his best for 2003. Freeman readily agreed, saying that was in everyone's best interests.

Freeman is obviously short of front-rowers and said he would probably have to have a look at others in England, which could bring former Warrior Joe Vagana back into contention.

Richard Villasanti is eligible for both New Zealand and Australia and has hedged his bets lately after declaring earlier that he would play for New Zealand if selected. It is unlikely he will be picked for the Kangaroos in the near future so a call from Freeman might tip the balance.

Ruben Wiki will play well wherever asked - front or second row, starter or impact man, and Roosters prop Jason Cayless, Nathan's 22-year-old younger brother, could play his way to test starter's role on Sunday.

He said he had moved to the Roosters to look for opportunities after being behind his big brother and Kangaroo Michael Vella at the Eels.

Freeman will name his side after Sunday's game.

Likely side to play Australia: Clinton Toopi, Matt Utai, Nigel Vagana, David Vaealiki, Francis Meli, Motu Tony, Stacey Jones, Jerry Seuseu, Richard Swain, Jason Cayless, Ali Lauiti'iti, Stephen Kearney (captain), Logan Swann; interchange Ruben Wiki, David Solomona, Lance Hohaia, Awen Guttenbeil.