Rugby league: Webb likely to be in Kiwis squad

1.00pm

Australian-born fullback Brent Webb is likely to be included in the Kiwis team for the Tri-Nations league series against the Kangaroos and Lions later this year, it was reported today.

New Zealand officials are preparing what they believe is an irrefutable case for Webb, 23, to be declared eligible to play for the Kiwis on three-year residency grounds, The Christchurch Press said.

Although Webb did not make his NRL debut for the New Zealand Warriors until April 2002, they contend he arrived in Auckland the previous September for pre-season training.

The Tri-Nations starts with New Zealand meeting Australia at North Harbour Stadium on October 16, before both teams travel to Britain for the rest of the double round-robin and final.

NZRL chairman Selwyn Pearson confirmed the move yesterday.

He said Webb, who this week extended his Warriors contract until the end of 2007, is keen to play for his adopted country.

Daniel Anderson, the Kiwis and former Warriors coach who originally signed Webb from the Queensland Cup competition, said he was constantly on the lookout for players who were eligible "in regards to parentage, birth, and residency".

"I've just got to clarify what the eligibility guidelines are. I am interested in players who are eligible first and then available.

"There are plenty of blokes who have eligibility but unless they are available it's not worth it.

"In the past Timana Tahu and Willie Mason were eligible but didn't make themselves available," he said.

Regular Kiwis centre Nigel Vagana was switched to fullback for the Anzac test at Newcastle after Karmichael Hunt, 17, opted for Queensland and Australia, and replacement David Vaealiki was injured.

An out-of-position Vagana suffered through a fumbling, forgettable night as Australia romped to a 37-10 victory.

Meanwhile, the Kiwis are still short of options.

Vaealiki suffered a second, season-ending injury, and former international Motu Tony is now playing as a centre for lowly British Super League club Castleford.

"What annoys me is Karmichael Hunt had it whispered in his ear that one day he would play State of Origin and for Australia, yet the Queensland selectors recently said they also have Brent Webb in their sights," Pearson said.

"How many fullbacks do they want? If there were 10 fullbacks in Australia who were eligible for the Kiwis would they tell them all not to make themselves available to play for us?"

- NZPA