Warriors skipper Simon Mannering is unlikely to be fit in time for next week’s Anzac test in Melbourne. Photo / Getty Images
Warriors skipper Simon Mannering and teammate Manu Vatuvei are appearing less likely to feature for the Kiwis in next week's test against the Kangaroos in Melbourne.
Both Mannering and Vatuvei have missed selection for this weekend's NRL match against the Raiders at Mount Smart Stadium due to respective hamstring injuries.
Meanwhile, Warriors hooker Aaron Heremaia is cautious over any potential Kiwis call-up for himself. He said his main focus is to help the Warriors improve their form.
Having conceded 80 points in their last two fixtures, Heremaia said defence is the big focus for the Warriors in training this week. He said they have simply been defending too much.
Patrick Ah Van will make his first appearance of the season on Saturday. He has been named on the wing, allowing Brent Tate to revert to his usual spot at centre.
Utility Lance Hohaia moves from five-eighth to fullback in place of Wade McKinnon, who drops to a five-man bench, while Joel Moon shifts from centre to the No 6 jersey.
Steve Price and Brett Seymour also remain on the Warriors injured list.
Warriors
Lance Hohaia, Patrick Ah Van, Brent Tate, Jerome Ropati, Bill Tupou, Joel Moon, James Maloney, Sam Rapira, Aaron Heremaia, Russell Packer, Lewis Brown, Ben Matulino, Micheal Luck (captain).
Interchange (one to be omitted): Wade McKinnon, Jesse Royal, Ukuma Ta'ai, Jeremy Latimore, Ian Henderson.
Raiders
Josh Dugan, Brett Kelly, Jarrod Croker, Joel Thompson, Daniel Vidot, Terry Campese, Adam Mogg, Dane Tilse, Alan Tongue (capt), David Shillington, Tom Learoyd-Lahrs, Bronson Harrison, Josh Miller.
Interchange: Glen Buttriss, Trevor Thurling, Shaun Fensom, Scott Logan, Marc Herbert, Troy Thompson.
- NEWSTALK ZB, NZPA
