The Broncos prop will start at lock tomorrow for the Kiwis. The positions in the middle of the field are almost interchangeable in the modern day game but it also probably reflects a desire from Kearney to have both his captains on the field from the start of the match.
He's also given a start to Sam Moa, perhaps expecting the former Hull FC prop to feed off the big reception at the KC Stadium.
Kearney, who is looking for his sixth successive test victory tomorrow, is unconcerned that the home side are favoured by bookmakers on both sides of the world.
"I guess it means something to the punters but it doesn't mean nothing to myself, said Kearney of England's favourites tag. "To the outsider it might seem that way but we have a belief that the culture and what we have built over the last 18 months will stand us in good stead tomorrow."
Kearney also played down fears about the inexperience of his squad, saying he has noticed the team evolve markedly over the ten days on tour.
"I've seen the whole group grow," said Kearney. "[Last] Friday night [against Leeds] was a good marker for us and we have seen where we are at. I was pleased with the session today and we need to take it to the park tomorrow."
- By Michael Burgess in Hull
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