AB call-ups could scupper skipper's Northland move

The probable All Black selections of Troy Flavell and Jerome Kaino have forced Auckland to reconsider letting incumbent captain Justin Collins play for Northland on loan this season.

The 32-year-old flanker, who has signed to play for Northland from 2007, feared an abundance of loose-forward riches at Auckland may have confined him to the bench or even the Bs this season.

Collins initiated discussions about a loan to Northland to help clear the logjam and the move was provisionally supported by the Auckland management without a firm commitment being given.

But the probable loss of Flavell and Kaino to the All Blacks and the long-term injury to Angus Macdonald is likely to see Collins remain in Auckland this season.

Auckland coach Pat Lam said: "The most important thing is to consider the contribution Justin has made for both Auckland and Northland and make a decision that is best for him.

"He did a great job for us last year as captain. History shows that we have used 40 players in previous campaigns to cover for All Blacks and injuries."

Officials from Auckland, North Harbour and Northland will meet tomorrow to discuss ways in which they can use their player resources for the advancement of the Blues.

It is a theme Blues coach David Nucifora has been driving, arguing that it makes little sense for a player of Collins' talent and leadership ability to be stuck in the Auckland Bs when he could be making a major contribution for Northland.

"We have a new dynamic with the salary cap," said Auckland and Blues chief executive Andy Dalton. "The intention is to talk to both [of the other] provinces in the Blues region and discuss how we can move players if ever that should become necessary.

"We would obviously prefer, if there was any movement to be made, that players remained in the Blues franchise."

Should Collins play for Auckland this season, it seems unlikely he will be asked to captain the side. Lam says it is too early to make a call on who will do the job but the most likely candidates appear to be Steve Devine or Daniel Braid.

Macdonald's injury is likely to keep him out of action until the latter stages and stalwart prop Nick White might struggle to hold a regular place.