Kiwis put faith in young stars
30/04/2008 4:57:04 PM
Adam Lucius
Exclusive to Sportal
St George Illawarra winger Jason Nightingale and Souths youngster Issac Luke will make their international debuts for New Zealand after just 41 appearances between them in the NRL.
Ushering in a new era under rookie coach Stephen Kearney, the Kiwi selectors have handed Nightingale and the exciting Luke their first caps for the Centenary Test against Australia at the SCG on May 9.
Nightingale has played 23 games since entering first grade last year, while Luke has racked up 18 matches for the Rabbitohs.
Destructive Roosters centre Setaimata Sa will also wear the Kiwi jersey for the first time.
Nightingale's selection came on the same day he signed with the Dragons for a further three years.
New Zealand is looking for a fresh start with Kearney at the helm after being walloped 58-0 by Australia in October and embarking on a disastrous tour to the UK under coach Gary Kemble.
A player revolt led to Kemble's sacking, with highly-respected Melbourne assistant and former New Zealand captain Kearney appointed to repair the damage.
He has gone for a mix of youth and power in his first Test in charge.
But there is no place for fiery Manly centre Steve Matai or experienced forward David Kidwell, who has been chosen as 18th man.
New Zealand team:
1.Brent Webb
2.Jason Nightingale
3.Setaimata Sa
4. Iosia Soliola
5.Sam Perrett
6.Ben Roberts
7.Thomas Leuluai
8.Nathan Cayless
9.Issac Luke
10.Roy Asotasi
11.David Fa'alogo
12. Sonny Bill Williams
13.Simon Mannering
Interchange: Dene Halatau, Jeremy Smith, Frank Pritchard, Adam Blair
18th man: David Kidwell
