Rugby: Schoolboy an option for Wellington

TJ Perenara in action for Mana College in 2008. Photo / Andrew Bonallack Porirua CityLife

The Wellington Lions are ready to call in an 18-year-old high school student as they chase a spot in the ITM Cup semifinals.

With All Black Alby Mathewson and the injured Piri Weepu both unavailable, Wellington coach Andre Bell's been left searching for a solution at halfback for Saturday's crunch match away to Southland.

Bell says TJ Perenara, the New Zealand secondary schools captain, could be the answer.

He says they have dispensation for him to be selected.

The teenager has some sporting pedigree with both parents, uncle, aunt and grandmother representing New Zealand at softball

His cousin Henry Perenara played league for the Kiwis.

- NEWSTALK ZB