Kaino hoping call leads to test debut

Jerome Kaino. Picture / Dean Purcell

Auckland flanker Jerome Kaino is eyeing a possible test rugby debut against the Wallabies on Saturday after being called in for suspended All Black Jerry Collins yesterday.

Kaino, who played for Auckland against Southland in the NPC cliffhanger on Sunday, was summoned to join the squad for Saturday's Tri-Nations test at Eden Park.

Whether he is selected in the playing 22 will be known today when coach Graham Henry names his team.

Kaino, 22, toured Europe last November with the All Blacks and played against the Barbarians, but has yet to make a test appearance.

Flanker Collins was suspended for two weeks by a SANZAR judicial committee for punching a Springboks player during Saturday's 31-27 win over the Springboks in Dunedin.

Kaino's inclusion is the only change to the Tri-Nations squad this week.

Injured players Daniel Carter (fractured leg), Byron Kelleher (concussion) and Sitiveni Sivivatu (calf) were again not considered.

Meanwhile across the Tasman, the Wallaby's injury toll has risen to 17 with back-up hooker Stephen Moore the latest confirmed casualty.

Moore has been ruled out of the final Tri-Nations test because of a lower back injury.

His place in the squad has been taken by former test rake Adam Freier, who joined the Wallabies camp in Coffs Harbour on Sunday.

Moore is the 17th player unavailable for selection because of injury.

Prop Matt Dunning is also in doubt due to a back injury and did not train yesterday. A decision on Dunning's fitness is expected to be made today, while loose forward Scott Fava also missed yesterday's session because of a virus.

Coach Eddie Jones said while Moore's loss was disappointing, it did open the door for Freier to make an impression.

"It's another injury and another disappointment, but Adam has already had a taste of test rugby and is looking forward to capitalising on this latest opportunity," Jones said.

"He's an enthusiastic player, and with another four or five new blokes in the squad at the moment there's certainly plenty of that out there in each session."

The team leave for Auckland on Thursday.

- AGENCIES