Lam still hopes Rush will return

Auckland representative newcomer James Somerset in training at Dilworth School. Picture / Dean Purcell

Auckland NPC coach Pat Lam is not ruling out a return by influential captain Xavier Rush in what could be his final season in New Zealand.

Rush, who leaves to take up a three-year contract with Cardiff after the NPC, is still sidelined with glandular fever, but will be available for selection once he recovers, Lam said yesterday.

"It's a day-by-day, week-by-week basis at the moment. You never know how long it will take to get back."

Lam, who announced his NPC squad yesterday, has named Justin Collins as captain alongside a number of new faces.

"There's some exciting talent that's coming through and it's important we give these guys the opportunity."

Among them is winger James Somerset, who has been impressive for Marist in Auckland's Gallaher Shield competition.

"He's been a New Zealand Colt for the last two years and he's got a huge future," Lam said.

Back for the start of the season is Doug Howlett, not required by the All Blacks for the Tri-Nations.

The squad leaves for Australia on Tuesday to play two pre-season matches against the Queensland Reds and the NSW Warratahs before heading home to take on Wellington at Eden Park on August 6. Their first NPC game is against North Harbour at Albany on August 13.

North Harbour, who played Manu Samoa last month, will name their NPC squad next week. They play pre-season games against Northland on July 26 and Waikato on August 6.


Auckland


Forwards:
Chris Heard, Daniel Muller, Nick White, Saimone Taumoepeau, Semisi Telefoni, Lance Poching, Bryce Williams, Brad Mika, Kurtis Haiu, Angus MacDonald, Jerome Kaino, Justin Collins, Daniel Braid.


Backs:
Steve Devine, Tanielo Moa, Tasesa Lavea, Isaia Toe'ava, Sam Tuitupou, Ben Atiga, Gavin Williams, Jamie Helleur, James Somerset, Tony Koonwaiyou, Doug Howlett, Brent Ward, Isa Nacewa.