Three big-name New Zealand forwards have retired from international rugby league, leaving gaping holes to fill for this month’s Test against England.
Simon Mannering, Ben Matulino and Russell Packer have all pulled the pin, confiding first in new Kiwi coach Michael Maguire, who will name his squad for next week’s Denver Test on Sunday.
Former skipper Mannering announced the end of one of the great international careers, having reached 45 Tests. The 31-year-old Warriors stalwart is the fourth-most capped Kiwi behind Ruben Wiki (55), Gary Freeman (46) and Stacey Jones (46).
Wests Tigers props Matulino and Packer – both former Warriors – have clocked up 23 and seven Test caps respectively.
Mannering and Packer were part of New Zealand’s failed 2017 World Cup campaign, a tournament missed by the injured Matulino.
There is no suggestion any of the trio had pressure placed on them by their clubs, with the distance and timing of the Test considered highly disruptive by many NRL coaches and officials.
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What to look out for in week two of the Pacific Championships
Brad Fittler claims widening State of Origin eligibility rules to include Australian-raised New Zealand and England players will benefit both the domestic and international game.
If you followed the recent Rugby League World Cup, you’ll probably have noted that the tournament has both passionate supporters and vocal detractors.
Since the Super League War, Rugby League has failed to cement an international calendar. The historical tours disappeared – in part due to the war but also since the English game transferred to a summer season.
With many spruiking that the pinnacle of our beloved sport is State of Origin, surely it’s time to make yet another amendment to the playbook and finally let New Zealand and English players in on the fun?
With the World Cup final just days away, I thought I’d reflect on some of the key moments and memories of the past ten…
