League: Denver test can help lift players — Kiwis coach

Michael Maguire named as the new Kiwis rugby league coach. Photo / Photosport

New Kiwis coach Michael Maguire believes the controversial Denver league test has the potential to improve and reinvigorate players before they return to club duty.

The former South Sydney premiership-winning coach insists there are some benefits to the June 23 match at Mile High Stadium against England, despite NRL clubs holding major concerns over their players making the hit-and-run long-haul trip to play at high altitude.

The Warriors have already ruled their Kiwi internationals out of playing the following week's match against Cronulla and are considering resting them from the June 15 match against the Cowboys, to lessen the amount of travel before the Denver test.

But Maguire insists players gain invaluable experience and confidence from being in representative teams and says the midseason test could enhance their performances once they return to club level.

"Many times during my time as an NRL coach, players have come back from international games as better players because they're playing at a higher level," said Maguire.

"And it actually gives them a fresh outlook at this time of the year. I've actually had many players that have played international football play much better when they've come back to their club.

"I always enjoyed players going away for internationals or State of Origin knowing I was going to get a better player back — even though you have those thoughts of it [negatively impacting your season].

"What you get back is a player that has now experienced something special. Club level is one thing, but when you're bringing the best players together, they're playing at a higher level."

The Warriors have declared only 100 per cent fit players will be made available and it remains to be seen if the likes of captain Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, halfback Shaun Johnson and hooker Issac Luke will be released.

"I have had many conversations with [Warriors coach] Steve [Kearney] and I'm very aware of where his players are at," he said. "But each week they've got to turn up fit and play well for the Warriors, so I can imagine they'll want to have a big game next weekend."

The fifth-placed Warriors have the weekend off with the bye this round but resume their campaign against Manly in Christchurch on June 9.