League: Blair still in contention for Anzac test

Adam Blair. Photo / Getty Images

Adam Blair sidestepped the Kiwis' final training run ahead of tomorrow's Anzac test against the Kangaroos though team medical staff remain optimistic his ankle injury would not prevent him playing an integral role in the world champion's pack.

The Melbourne Storm second rower rolled his left ankle during yesterday's session and remained in the team hotel today to ice the joint while the squad completed their preparations at Skilled Park.

Kiwis team doctor Simon Mayhew said the 21-test veteran would be assessed again tomorrow morning and must run during a fitness test to remain in the starting line-up.

Blair dipped the ankle in a chilly bin at regular intervals until 11pm last night and resumed the regime this morning while teammates headed for the test venue for a light run.

"He'll have to run tomorrow or it's over but he's been saying he'll be OK," Mayhew said.

"He's a model patient and its improved overnight so that's encouraging."

Hooker Nathan Fien's long-standing hamstring strain is also not expected to prevent him starting in the dummy half role.

He was barefoot at training today and watched from the stands but Mayhew was confident Fien would be also available.

- NZPA