League: Fisher-Harris added to Kiwis training squad

James Fisher-Harris has been rewarded after a breakthrough year by being selected for the New Zealand Kiwis training squad. Photo/Getty Images

Northlander James Fisher-Harris is part of the latest group to join the NZ Kiwis training squad as they prepare for next month's test against Australia in Perth and the subsequent Four Nations Tournament in England.

The blockbusting forward had a highly impressive season after being given a shot in first grade by coach Anthony Griffin following a number of injuries.

Fisher-Harris was named in the national U20 side in May, but had to withdraw from their encounter with the Junior Kangaroos through injury. He took the field for the Junior Kiwis in the same fixture last year.

The Rawene product moved across the ditch three years ago to pursue a career in rugby league, something that has been well rewarded.

Fisher-Harris will join fellow Northlander Adam Blair of the Brisbane Broncos in the training squad.

Speaking on his meteoric rise in 2016, Fisher-Harris said it was a collective effort from others that helped him get to this point.

"Everyone has actually helped this year to be honest in terms of my confidence. They all tell me to keep doing what I'm doing. Even the wingers," he said.

"There's not one person who hasn't helped me out. Everyone has really taken me under their wing and given me confidence."

Selection into the Kiwis' training squad should help dull the pain after being eliminated from the NRL playoffs.

Fisher-Harris put in a solid performance in the Panthers' 22-12 semifinal loss against the Canberra Raiders, but two high tackles in three minutes marred his efforts.

The first one gave Canberra the opportunity to relieve some pressure while the second one on halfback Aidan Sezer gave the NRL's leading scorer Jarrod Croker the opportunity to put the result beyond doubt.

Fisher-Harris will be joined by fellow Panthers Dallin Watene-Zelezniak, Suaia Matagi and Te Maire Martin.

After two previous false starts, DWZ finally made his Kiwis debut in May, while Matagi was part of the triumphant 2014 Four Nations campaign, coming off the bench against Samoa.

Like Fisher-Harris, five-eighth Martin also stepped up to first grade this season, but missed Penrith's run to the playoffs with a shoulder injury.

The final touring squad of 24 will be named during the week after the NRL Premiership Grand Final on October 2.

The Kiwis face Australia on October 15 and kick off their Four Nations title defence against hosts England on October 29.