The Auckland Warriors will try another makeshift fullback in their match against the Sharks in Cronulla this weekend, with Junior Kiwi and Otahuhu centre Clinton Toopi stepping into the action.
Toopi, who had two starts in the centres last season, has been a regular with the Warrior feeder club Newtown Jets this year.
He was the subject of an illegal approach by Wests Tigers before the anti-tampering deadline came off last weekend.
The approach is the subject of investigation by the National Rugby League.
Captain John Simon returns on Saturday night, his leadership and kicking game vital elements in the Warriors' hopes.
Cliff Beverley keeps his place but goes to the bench and Jason Bell is dropped, along with Jets fullback David Mulhall.
Lock Jason Death also makes a welcome return after a stand-down to repair a broken thumb.
Logan Swann comes back into the second row. His ability to off-load inthe tackle is another plus for the struggling side.
* Warriors: Clinton Toopi, Odell Manuel, David Myles, Nigel Vagana, Francis Meli, John Simon (c),Stacey Jones, Joe Vagana, Robert Mears, Terry Hermansson, Logan Swann, Monty Betham, Jason Death. Subs: Cliff Beverley, Scott Coxon, Ali Lauiti'iti, Mark Tookey.
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