Captaincy against Lions to Collins

Hard-working loose forward Justin Collins will lead Auckland against the Lions.

Collins and utility Angus Macdonald, who captained Auckland in a trial game against Counties Manukau on Wednesday, were the leading contenders in the absence of Xavier Rush, who has glandular fever.

Auckland coach Pat Lam yesterday confirmed the 31-year-old Collins would lead the side in Tuesday's match after naming a 24-man squad.

Rush, halfback David Gibson, veteran midfield back Eroni Clarke and prop Daniel Muller were the players not considered because of illness and injury.

The unfamiliar names in the side are halfback Taniela Moa, first five-eighths Isaia Toe'ava, lock Kurtis Haiu and hooker John Fonokalafi.

Another inclusion is midfield back Gavin Williams, a Southland recruit for the past couple of years.

Moa, Toe'ava and Haiu have all played in New Zealand schools and/or age-grade teams, and Toe'ava is also a New Zealand sevens representative.

Fonokalafi is part of the powerful Marist club front-row that includes 2004 All Black Saimone Taumoepeau.

Lam has worked on the assumption that Doug Howlett, who was dropped from the All Black 22 this week, will not be available.

But the test situation might still have an effect on the Auckland side. Joe Rokocoko, for instance, is among those who might be called up by Graham Henry depending on injuries and form.

The squad

Brent Ward, Joe Rokocoko, Tony Koonwaiyou, Isa Nacewa, Gavin Williams, Ben Atiga, Sam Tuitupou, Isaia Toe'ava, Tasesa Lavea, Tanela Moa, Steve Devine; Angus Macdonald, Daniel Braid, Jerome Kaino, Justin Collins (c), Kurtis Haiu, Bryce Williams, Brad Mika, Saimone Taumoepeau, Nick White, Chris Heard, John Afoa, Semisi Telefoni, John Fonokalafi.