David Kidwell (L), Epalahame Lauaki (C) and Thomas Leuluai (R) are three of the five new players who were today named for the Kiwis tour to Britain and France. File photos
David Kidwell (L), Epalahame Lauaki (C) and Thomas Leuluai (R) are three of the five new players who were today named for the Kiwis tour to Britain and France. File photos
The vastly-experienced David Kidwell is among five players added to the Kiwi team today for its four-test tour of Britain and France.
South Sydney's Kidwell, 30, who missed most of the NRL season after knee surgery, is joined by recalled halfback Thomas Leuluai, 2006 Kiwi debutant Epalahame Lauaki,Brisbane utility Greg Eastwood and Sydney Roosters fullback Sam Perrett, giving the Kiwis a 24-man tour party.
Perrett, 22, who was born in Auckland, becomes the eighth newcomer named after seven new faces were included in the 19-man squad for the Centenary Test against the Kangaroos in Wellington on October 14.
Kidwell, Lauaki, Eastwood and Perrett assembled in Auckland when the team went into camp yesterday.
Leuluai is still in England, where he played for his Wigan side in its English Super League semi-final against Leeds at Headingley this morning. He will link up with the Kiwis when they arrive on October 16.
"We're thrilled with the quality of players we've been able to bring together for the tour," said coach Gary Kemble.
"It's great for us to be able to introduce so many new players a year out from the World Cup and we're also pleased to have a player with David's experience back in the side."
Kidwell was sidelined until South Sydney's final match of the season against Manly.
Kemble said the plan was for players not involved in the Centenary Test to play for the All Golds in their commemorative match against the Northern Union in Warrington on October 20.
"We are looking to give everyone in the squad a game before the first test against Great Britain," he said.
The Kiwis play their tests against Great Britain in Huddersfield (October 27), Hull (November 3) and Wigan (November 10). The tour finishes with a one-off test against France in Paris on November 17.
The Kiwis' final 17-man combination for the Wellington test won't be confirmed until early next week.
