Australia v New Zealand preview

Stephen Kearney’s New Zealand will be hoping to make it four straight test victories with a victory against Australia on Friday. 

The Kiwi’s are without a long list of star players, that include the injured Simon Mannering, Peta Hiku, Dean Wahre and Tui Lolohea, whilst NZ Warriors players Manu Vatuvei, Ben Matulino, Bodene Thompson and Isaac Luke are also not available for Stephen Kearney this weekend. 

With Kieran Foran being granted personal leave by the Eels, options are stretched for the Kiwis, and much will be laid at the shoulders of Tohu Harris, who will wear the number 6 shirt, and Brisbane star Kodi Nikorima to get New Zealand going in the game. 

Shaun Kenny-Dowall has also been ruled out of the game after failing to get through the Captain’s run and has been replaced by Brad Takairangi in the Kiwis 17. 

For Mal Meninga however, most of the high profiles Kangaroos make their way into the former Queensland coach’s squad, with a few new names added to the list. 

Much has been made of Semi Radradra‘s inclusion into the squad after opting to play for Australia over his native Fiji, and is set to make his first start in the Green and Gold jersey this weekend. 

Other debutants for Australia include Brisbane’s Josh McGuire, North Queensland star Michael Morgan and Rooster’s Blake Ferguson, who deubtant in the backline. 

Match officials: Referee: Gerard Sutton. Sideline officials: Jeff Younis and Shane Rehm. Review Officials: Ben Galea and Ashley Klein. Senior RO: Bernard Sutton.