Robinson on the mend

By CHRIS RATTUE

Waikato and their lock Keith Robinson - a World Cup prospect - got the good news they were hoping for when he was cleared of a serious back injury.

Robinson damaged his back in the final training before last Saturday's Ranfurly Shield challenge, and was forced out of the match. He will also miss tomorrow's encounter against Southland in Invercargill.

It was feared Robinson's season was over but a specialist reported yesterday that while he has disc damage, there is not a deep-rooted nerve problem. Robinson is a rough chance to be fit for the local derby against Bay of Plenty in Hamilton next Saturday.

Waikato coach Ian Foster has made a number of changes to his backline, which will be missing fullback Todd Miller (hamstring) and wing Matt Priscott (wrist).

Derek Maisey, better known as a running first five-eighths, comes in at second five-eighths, and Regan King makes a rare appearance on the wing.

Fijian wing Filimoni Bolavucu is in the reserves and in line for his first Waikato appearance, after sitting on the bench during the win over Northland in Whangarei.

Hooker Greg Smith has returned to the Fijian camp, bringing New Zealand Colt John Pareanga into the squad. Dave Duley replaces the injured Robinson.

Southland captain Steve Jackson is in slight injury doubt, with an Achilles problem. Richard Apanui has been named at first five-eighth in place of rookie James Wilson, his first start since the third-round win over North Harbour.

Southland coach Phil Young described the change as "horses for courses", adding 20-year-old Wilson had not been dropped through lack of performance.

The selection change had been forced on Young with the unavailability of centre Gavin Williams due to a knee injury.

"Gavin is a big influence on the team in terms of its organisation and Richard gives a little bit more experience in terms of that role," Young said.

"James [Wilson] has a bit to learn, but I've been really pleased with him. He put his hand up and he's learning all the time."

James Jowsey replaces Williams.

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