League: McClennan crisis

Warriors utility Jerome Ropati could be the latest Kiwis contender in doubt for the Tri Nations after it emerged he might be sidelined by a groin injury.

The 20-year-old who made his test debut at fullback in the Anzac test has been troubled by the injury for some time and missed the August 13 visit to the Melbourne Storm before playing out the final two matches for the Warriors from the bench.

Ropati's absence would pose a problem for Kiwis coach Brian McClennan, who is facing up to life without West Tigers five-eighths Benji Marshall, who has indicated he needs an operation on his injured shoulder, and Sione Faumuina, who is taking up a short-term deal with UK Super League side Hull.

McClennan is still hopeful Marshall will be available for the opening two games of the Tri Nations against Australia before going under the knife but he was unable to contact Marshall this week.

"I'm not sure what's happening with Benji," McClennan admitted. "The No 6 jersey is an area we might have to be creative because without Benji, Sione and maybe even Jerome, we are getting skinny on No 6s."

The halves is one area of grave concern for McClennan, with halfbacks Thomas Leuluai (broken ankle) and Lance Hohaia (knee) battling back from injuries.

Versatile Cronulla Sharks centre Nigel Vagana has played at five-eighths for both the Kiws and the Sharks before, while St Helens second-rower Vinnie Anderson played in the No 6 jersey for the Kiwis in last year's Tri Nations.

- HERALD ON SUNDAY