League: NZRL confirm Kiwis players involved in mid-season Denver test will have full insurance cover

Warriors forward and Kiwis World Cup captain Adam Blair is supporting the NZRL's commitment to the Denver test. Photo / Photosport.

Plans for the Kiwis mid-season test against England in Denver are advancing with the New Zealand Rugby League confirming the players' insurance policy is now in place.

Players participating in the June 23 match at Mile High Stadium will be covered by the same level of insurance used for State of Origin and test matches along with additional insurance for playing in the US.

News that the insurance details are now locked in place will alleviate some of the player welfare concerns held by both players and clubs, over the physical demands involved in players making the long-haul return trip to play at high altitude.

The NZRL today issued a press release stating they had received assurances from doctor Greg Macleod that the players involved won't be subjected to an increased risk of injury.

"Of course playing in Denver brings with it some unique considerations but having experts on board like Greg Macleod allows us to be prepared in the best possible manner," Kiwis manager Nadene Conlon said.

The Warriors are likely to have at least eight players eligible for selection but CEO Cameron George has previously said none will be released unless they are 100 per cent fit.

The test will take place between the rounds 15 and 16 of the NRL competition, with Warriors players having to return from their clash against the Cowboys in Townsville on June 15 before embarking on the flight to the US.

The weekend following the test, the Warriors are set to host the Cronulla Sharks at Mt Smart Stadium on June 29, but it is doubtful whether any of their Kiwis representatives will be asked to back-up just three days after arriving home.

Warriors forward and Kiwis 2017 World Cup captain Adam Blair says he is supporting the NZRL's commitment to the Denver test.

"It's exciting for international rugby league and New Zealand have jumped on board trying to change things around New Zealand rugby league," Blair said.

"I'm supporting the game for what it is and if I'm selected then I definitely won't be turning down a Kiwis jersey at any time."

Applications for the vacant Kiwis coaching job close today with the NZRL's coaching appointment panel set to interview interested candidates before making a recommendation to the NZRL board which will finalise the appointment.

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