Rugby League: Selectors eye Robbie Paul for life-saving Anzac test role

By PETER JESSUP

The Kiwi selectors meet today to pencil in names for the Anzac test, with that of Bradford's Robbie Paul sure to be high on the agenda.

The Kiwis look in good shape in the run-up to the game, arguably in better shape than Australia with their rash of injuries.

But there are big holes in the crucial positions that handle the ball most - hooker, five-eighth and fullback.

Paul last played for the Kiwis on the 2002 tour of Great Britain. Kiwis coach Daniel Anderson is not keen on bringing back players who arrive just two days before a test, as has been the case with Robbie and his brother Henry in the past.

But Robbie has filled the hooker and five-eighth roles in tests before, and will be a lifesaver if he can regenerate the form that previously bothered Australian sides.

Bradford are not committed in the Super League on the test weekend and, for once, Paul could fly into Australia to join the team for its full build-up.

Other potential players at the Bulls are Logan Swann, Tevita Vaikona, Lesley Vainikolo and Shontayne Hape.

Richard Swain's Hull side are also off on test weekend, so he should be available.

Anderson said several clubs had been approached to check on the availability of players, but was cagey on whether any were English clubs."

The Warrior Kiwis fly to Sydney on Sunday and the others named by selectors that night join the team in Terrigal, on the Central Coast just south of the match venue in Newcastle, on Monday.

* Sharks centre and last year's Kiwi five-eighth Nigel Vagana has been charged with a grade-one high tackle on Matt Sing during the loss to the Cowboys. He may go into the test with just the one game behind him after shoulder surgery, as a guilty plea will see him having this weekend off.