All Blacks: Mathewson, Guildford called in as cover

Alby Mathewson and Zac Guildford

Halfback Alby Mathewson and wing Zac Guildford have been called into the All Blacks as they consider their injury concerns ahead of the Tri-Nations rugby test against South Africa in Wellington on Saturday.

Guildford was dropped for the Tri-Nations after last month's tests against Ireland and Wales, while Mathewson toured with the All Blacks last year.

Team management have summoned them to the capital as they continue to assess injuries sustained by wing Joe Rokocoko, utility back Richard Kahui and halfback Jimmy Cowan during New Zealand's 32-12 win over the Springboks in the Tri-Nations opener at Auckland last Saturday.

Kahui injured his right shoulder after falling awkwardly while Rokocoko has a minor hamstring strain and Cowan an abdominal strain.

Kahui has been ruled out of the test in Wellington while Rokocoko and Cowan will continue to be monitored.

"Richard will have further medical tests on his shoulder this week to assess the seriousness of the injury but he will definitely be unavailable for the second test," All Blacks coach Graham Henry said today.

"Also, with the injuries to Joe and Jimmy, we thought it prudent to bring in Zac and Alby as cover."

Guildford and Mathewson are due to join the squad today.

- NZPA