Rugby: Harbour leave out McAlister again

Luke McAlister. Photo / Getty Images

There is no room for Luke McAlister in the North Harbour lineup named today to face Tasman on Tuesday night in the national provincial rugby championship.

McAlister was left out of a 23-man squad for the match in Albany. Last week he who failed to turn up for training with his province before seeking an early release from his contract with the New Zealand Rugby Union (NZRU).

The 30-test All Black was omitted from the side beaten 46-29 by Otago on Thursday night and on Friday apologised to North Harbour and the NZRU for his actions.

He has returned to training but coach Liam Barry said it was too soon to include the five-eighth in the side as he was short on preparation.

"Luke only had his first training run with us on Saturday and it was not a full, structured training. He will get to know the plays and moves, and how we are playing the game, over this week and hopefully be up for selection for the Bay of Plenty game in Mt Maunganui next Saturday," said Barry.

North Harbour: Willie Walker, Ken Pisi, Rudi Wulf, Brendon Watt, David Raikuna, Ben Botica, Chris Smylie (captain), Mat Luamanu, Brent Wilson, Solomon King, James King, Chris Smith, Ben Afeaki, Michael Mayhew, Michael Reid. Reserves: Manu Leiataua, Taione Vea, Irwin Finau, Sam Hayes-Stevenson, Luke Hamilton, Nafi Tuitavake, Codey Rei, James Afoa.

- NZPA