Ex-Hull KR man in surprise contention for internationals

Former Hull KR man Zach Dockar-Clay has emerged as a surprise contender to be in the New Zealand Kiwis squad for their upcoming internationals.

The 29-year-old made his professional rugby league debut after signing for Hull KR when the club was in the RFL Championship, and helped the side regain their Super League status.

He was released from his contract early, largely due to Super League’s quota rules, it seems – and has since spent most of his time playing in Australia’s reserve-grade competitions.

However, he has featured on occasion for Sydney Roosters this year in NRL, and was most recently named as 18th man for their semi-final victory over Manly-Warringah Sea Eagles.

This is despite previously considering retirement when struggling to find an NRL spot.

Ex-Hull KR man in surprise contention for internationals

The Sydney Morning Herald has now reported that he may be in contention to be selected in the New Zealand Kiwis side for their Autumn internationals.

This is due to some injuries to half-backs Dylan Brown and Kieran Foran, meaning head coach Stacey Jones has some difficult decisions to make.

They report that he will try to bring Shaun Johnson out of retirement, after calling time on his career at the end of this season – after 32 appearances for the national side and 14 tries.

They also say that Dockar-Clay, alongside Newcastle Knights man Phoenix Crossland, could be options for the hooker role.

Dockar-Clay can play at both hooker and half-back, as well as in the pack, making him a good option for an injury-depleted side.

He has only made 20 NRL appearances, but an opportunity against top nations – including Australia – could be his chance to show what he can do, after being in a strong 30-man Sydney Roosters squad this campaign.

He’s off-contract at the end of the year, so a return to the UK could potentially be on the horizon.