Marshall back in Kiwi frame again

New Zealand national team coach Stephen Kearney has revealed that Benji Marshall is back in his thoughts when it comes to picking a squad for this year’s tour of England.

Shaun Johnson is now out of the tour with injury, and Keanry is spending time mulling over his options, especially as Thomas Leuluai is also going to miss the trip to Europe.

Marshall was part of a group of 40 New Zealand-qualified players who met with Kearney in a series of gatherings last month.

“Benji was part of that group and he’ll be considered along with some other options,” Kearney said.

“But it’s too far out to make those calls now and we’ll see how things pan out over the next couple of months.”

Marshall has not played for the Kiwis since 2012. He has also been linked with opting to represent Scotland, having been in contact with the Scotland Rugby League.

Kearney acknowledged that there are other options apart from Marshall for his half-back partnership.

“Kodi Nikorima was part of our camp for the Anzac test and he came in to be a part of the development process,” he added.

“He’s been out the last few weeks, but is coming back. We have got a couple of options, Lewis Brown has played that position too

“There’s still two months of footy to go, so we’ll monitor how guys are going and make a call when it gets closer to the date.”