Kiwi excitement pair named for Anzac Test

Captain Benji Marshall at the New Zealand Kiwis Rugby League training at North Harbour Stadium. Photo / Greg Bowker.

Shaun Johnson is tempering expectations about what he and Benji Marshall could potentially do in the halves for the Kiwis.

The excitement pair have been named to start alongside each other for the one-off test against the Kangaroos at Eden Park on Friday.

But Johnson says he's a debutant so can't expect too much.

"A lot of people are talking about attacking and that flashy sort of thing, but we've got to earn the right to get into that sort of position where we can do that."

Nathan Fien will provide cover for Marshall and Johnson, while also being the back-up hooker for Issac Luke.

Johnathan Thurston has reminded the Kiwis just how much firepower his Kangaroos side has.

Thurston will lead the Australian backline for Friday's Test at Eden Park, taking over the mantle from Darren Lockyer.

He says he's not the only one that's worn the Kangaroos shirt many a time.

"With the squad that we've got there's a lot of leadership in it. If you have a look at it there's a lot of captains in this team."