Thomas Leululai joins Kiwi side in Four Nations’ inaugural match against Australia
New Zealand has confirmed the uptake of Thomas Leululai on Thursday, October 27, for the upcoming inaugural match against Australia, which is scheduled to take place Friday.
The speculation is that Leululai was not linked to the Kiwis until they visited England almost a week ago.
He is one of the two changes that were made in the wake of their embarrassing 42-6 defeat against Australia almost ten days ago. The second change is that of suspended Russell Packer, who will be replaced by Ben Matulino.
Issac Luke will replace Nathan Fien where as Sika Manu will be seen next to Alex Glenn in the starting line-up.
While speaking about the latest happenings within the Kiwis outfit, their coach, Stephen Kearney stated, "I thought Issac Luke was one of the stronger performers last time and it was difficult not to give him a starting spot. I think over the last few years
he has come off the bench for us so that was an easy decision. And I thought with Thomas, I have watched him this year, and he adds something different to the group. Issac will be on but I think Thomas will come on for a spell and be just as effective."
For Friday’s battle, Australian side will walk into the playing field changed.
Coach, Tim Sheen has reserved Greg Inglis, for the game against England at Wembley on Saturday, whereas the Australian side will feature: B Slater and C Smith (Melbourne), A Uate (Newcastle), W Tonga, M Scott J Thurston (North Queensland), C Lawrence (Wests
Tigers), D Boyd (St George Illawarra); D Lockyer (Brisbane, capt), P Gallen (Cronulla), L Lewis (Penrith), S Thaiday (Brisbane), and A Watmough (Manly).
New Zealand will advance into the contest with: K Locke, K Faifai Loa (North Queensland), L Brown and S Mannering (NZ Warriors), G Beale (Brisbane), J Nightingale (St George Illawarra); B Marshall (Wests Tigers, capt), K Foran (Manly); B Matulino, Issac
Luke (South Sydney), S McKendry (Penrith), S Manu (Melbourne), J Smith (Cronulla).
With the minor changes for their squad, New Zealand will is aspiring to emulate the recent All-Blacks’ performance in Rugby League World Cup.
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