New Zealand name star-studded line-up for Leeds Rhinos clash as decision made on Wigan Warriors duo

Former Wigan boss Michael Maguire has named his New Zealand side for the clash with Leeds on Saturday night.

The game will act as New Zealand’s warm-up for the World Cup as they look to recapture the magic of the 2008 tournament when they last lifted the trophy and speaking of that famous day in their history, one of the members of that squad will make their final appearance at Headingley come Saturday.

That’s Thomas Leuluai who has been named in Maguire’s team. The fixture will also act as Adam Cuthbertson’s final appearance as he returns to Leeds for one last outing after two years away with York and Featherstone following a trophy laden spell with the Rhinos.

Leeds will also be saying farewell to Hull FC bound duo Brad Dwyer and Liam Sutcliffe as well Tom Briscoe, Muizz Mustapha and Bodene Thompson.

Their final appearances are set to come up against a star-studded New Zealand side.

Michael Maguire has named star fullback Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad at fullback whilst another notable name, Peta Hiku, starts at centre.

Veteran five-eighth and NRL winner with Manly back in 2011 Kieran Foran will make his return to Headingley, the site of his World Club Challenge defeat with the Sea Eagles back in 2012. Leeds only have one player still in their side who played that day in the shape of Zak Hardaker.

Star hooker Brandon Smith starts at nine with the Bromwich brothers adding some real size to the pack.

Meanwhile, top tier NRL halfback Jahrome Hughes starts on the bench to allow Leuluai, who captains the side, to starts in the number seven shirt.

Fellow Super League stars in Wigan’s Willie Isa and Catalans’ Dean Whare – who is expected to join the Warriors in 2023 – are the 18th and 19th men.

Here’s the team in full:

Your Kiwis to face the @leedsrhinos this weekend 🇳🇿
READ MORE – https://t.co/NPJpVhNKsU #worldcupwaka pic.twitter.com/iaEKT48LNo

— NZ Rugby League (@NZRL_Kiwis) October 5, 2022