Evans returns to favoured first-five spot

By CHRIS RATTUE

All Black Nick Evans will play in his favoured first five-eighths position when he returns to North Harbour for their clash against Canterbury tomorrow.

The national selectors and Evans were slightly at odds when he made the test squad this year. Evans saw himself as a first five-eighths who could play fullback - the selectors saw it the other way round.

The big-punting Evans will depart North Harbour for Otago after this season. Harbour coach Allan Pollock said he was mindful of balancing the immediate need for success with the union's future plans and the careers of other pivots, Tusi Pisi and Luke McAlister.

McAlister, a highly talented young All Black triallist, has shuffled between first and second five-eighths. He shifts out one position to make way for Evans in Christchurch tomorrow, although Evans may also play at fullback during the season.

McAlister is likely to keep the goalkicking duties, although Pollock said this was "still up for debate".

Evans will duel with Canterbury All Black legend Andrew Mehrtens in a match between two sides who were beaten in the opening round.

Mehrtens returns for Cameron McIntyre, who is injured along with former test prop Dave Hewett.

Harbour have also brought All Black prop Tony Woodcock, flanker Craig Newby and three-quarter Rico Gear into the starting lineup.


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