Warriors front-rower Agnatius Paasi and versatile back Peta Hiku have been added to the Kiwis squad for next Saturday's trans-Tasman test against Australia and the end of year tour of the UK.
The pair join Warriors teammate Isaiah Papali'i as replacements in the squad after Melbourne prop Nelson Asofa-Solomona (ankle)and Sydney Roosters interchange forward Zane Tetavano (biceps) were ruled out with injuries following Sunday night's NRL grand final at ANZ Stadium.
That left coach Michael Maguire needing to fill the 24th spot in the touring party before new Canterbury Bulldogs signing and former Penrith second-rower Corey Harawira-Naera was yesterday forced to withdraw with a groin injury.
"It's really disappointing for Nelson, Zane and Corey who were all so keen to be involved, especially Zane and Corey who were in line to make their debuts," said coach Michael Maguire.
"But it's exciting now for Isaiah and Agnatius who have the chance to debut and also for Peta to again be part of the Kiwis. They've all had strong seasons for the Warriors and we are thrilled to be able to call on them."
Uncapped forward Paasi's inclusion means the squad still features five debutants along with Melbourne hooker Brandon Smith, Storm utility back Jahrome Hughes and Sydney Roosters centre Joseph Manu and Papali'i.
Warriors front-rower Agnatius Paasi has been called into the Kiwis squad for their upcoming end of season test matches. Photo / Photosport
Paasi, Papali'i and experienced 11-test Kiwi Hiku were all strong contributors in helping the Warriors return to the NRL finals this season for the for the first time since 2011.
Paasi, who made one appearance for the Warriors in 2014, spent three seasons with the Gold Coast Titans (2015-2017) before returning to the Auckland-based club this year.
After missing the first two games of the season, the 26-year-old established himself as a starting member of the pack, averaging 40 minutes in each of the Warriors remaining 23 matches, along with 101 running metres, 38 post-contact metres and 22 tackles, while he also scored three tries.
Hiku's recall comes after he played in the mid-season Denver test loss to England after returning to his junior club the Warriors following stints with Manly (2013-2015) and Penrith (2016-2017) before joining Warrington in the English Super League last year.
Hiku started the season at right centre and was later used at fullback, on the wing and at five-eighth across 22 games in a season in which he celebrated his 100th NRL appearance.
The 25-year-old scored four tries, and managed eight try assists, six line breaks and eight line break assists while averaging 113 metres, 43 post-contact metres and 13 tackles a game.
The Kiwis assemble in Auckland on Saturday to prepare for their clash against the World Champions at Mt Smart Stadium.
