The Kiwis selectors were hoping for a Melbourne-Warriors grand final ahead of the World Cup at the end of October, the perfect way to keep top players performing at absolute top level.
But the end of the Warriors' run has not ended the chances of those pencilled infor the tournament.
Certainties for selection are wing Manu Vatuvei and left-centre partner Jerome Ropati, halfback Nathan Fien, second rower Simon Mannering, prop Sam Rapira and utility Lance Hohaia.
From the Storm will come prop Jeff Lima and bench back-up Adam Blair, interchange second rower Jeremy Smith and forward utility Sika Manu.
The Sharks' Luke Covell will not get a run despite his goal-kicking ability, because of his lack of pace. Dragon Jason Nightingale is pencilled in as the other wing. The only Cronulla player running close is Fraser Anderson.
Manly will contribute Steve Matai if he is able to play ahead of required shoulder surgery. Brent Webb will be fullback but is one of few players likely out of England; perhaps just Wigan halfback Thomas Leuluai will be called up, too. Benji Marshall will be five-eighth.
Ben Roberts, who toured England in 2007, has been told he can play for the strong Samoan outfit.
The Kiwis would have had a much greater chance had they been able to field Penrith's Frank Pritchard (shoulder surgery) and former Bulldog Sonny Bill Williams (who deserted league for the French rugby union) in their back row.
The Kiwis will play Tonga and the All Golds side - which will include Stacey Jones and Ruben Wiki - as build-up to the October 26 tournament opener against Australia.
