Rugby League: Luke backing young halves

Issac Luke. Photo / Getty

Kiwis co-captain Issac Luke is backing his young halves combination to be the difference on this tour, ahead of the opening match against Leeds tomorrow.

With the absence of Shaun Johnson, Kieran Foran and Thomas Leuluai many pundits are picking the New Zealanders could be vulnerable in the crucial playmaking positions.

But Luke disagrees, saying Tui Lolohea and Peta Hiku are ready to fire for the Kiwis.

"Tui has gone really well for the Warriors this season and Peta always performs well for us," said Luke. "It's a challenge but they'll be fine. They are both confident players and ready to go."

Luke's attitude is typical of the current Kiwis environment, where the young players are given plenty of encouragement to find their feet.

"Everyone is equal here," said Luke. "Everyone needs to feel comfortable...no matter how new they are. That's how you play your best."

In their final training session ahead of the Leeds clash there was plenty of focus on the two halves, with limited time to learn all the plays and combinations. Luke and Roger Tuivasa-Sheck will be vital tomorrow - and in the test series - as they provide support and guidance for their rookie team mates in the spine.

"Issac is the glue really," said Tuivasa-Sheck. "He holds it all together and directs everyone around. And then it is up to me at the back to talk to them and tell them where to go."
It's a big responsibility for a 22-year-old, who two years ago was a wide eyed kid at the World Cup.

"It's a change," agrees Tuivasa-Sheck. "But you get used to it, more talking and direction..it's an important job for a fullback."

The Kiwis had an intense session today, much more physical than a typical captain's run as players look to find their edge. They were watched by Ali Lauitiiti, who has been invited in as a guest player for the Leeds Rhinos.

"They are an impressive team," said Lauitiiti, who lit up the NRL in the early 2000s before a trophy laden eight year stint with Leeds. "I've got wonderful memories of playing in Leeds and it is very special to be facing the Kiwis at one of my favourite grounds in England."

Lautiiti - and fellow guest player Adrian Morley will need to roll back the years tomorrow, with the Rhinos missing three of their best players who are with the England squad as well as Kevin Sinfield, a late withdrawal today with a hand injury.

- By Michael Burgess in Leeds