Rugby League: Wiki's the one says Kiwis coach

Regardless of where Ruben Wiki plays in the National Rugby League next season, one thing is certain - the Canberra veteran is first choice as the Kiwis captain.

Wiki, who missed April's Anzac test through suspension, is set to captain the Kiwis on the end of season Tri-Nations series tour against Australia and Great Britain in England, following a ringing endorsement from New Zealand coach Daniel Anderson.

Anderson this week confirmed he wants Wiki to lead the team on October 16 against the Kangaroos at North Harbour Stadium.

"If Ruben's healthy and available he'll be my choice, there's no doubt about it," said Anderson.

"I'm a big fan of Ruben. He's done nothing but impress me every time I meet him.

"I don't think there will be one person who says he's not deserving of the role."

Following the North Harbour clash the transtasman rivals travel to England where they will play in London on October 23.

Anderson and the Kiwis management team are in the process of finalising the tour schedule, which also includes two tests against Great Britain in London to determine the Tri-Nations finalists at Leeds on November 27.

The Kiwis face Great Britain on November 6 and 20 and are also expected to play a one-off test against France at some stage.

Anderson said a squad of up to 24 players was envisaged for the series - a mix of NRL and England-based players.

Players involved in the latter stages of the English Super League would likely join the squad when the team arrives after the North Harbour international.

Free from his Warriors' commitments, Anderson has had more time to run the rule over Kiwis contenders who missed the 10-37 loss to Australia in Newcastle, and says many are staking a claim for the tour.

"Some of the players that didn't play in the Anzac test have really put their hands up," he said.

"[Props] Paul Rauhihi has been great for the North Queensland Cowboys and Alex Chan has been excellent for the Melbourne Storm.

"[Centre] Jamaal Lolesi is playing very well for the Bulldogs as well.

"It's good to see those players that were on the fringe for the Anzac test have taken the bit between their teeth."

- NZPA