Shaun Kenny-dowall To Miss New Zealand Test With Australia

05 May 2016 09:46

New Zealand have been dealt another blow on the eve of their Trans-Tasman Test with Australia after centre Shaun Kenny-Dowall was ruled out of Friday's clash at Newcastle's Hunter Stadium.

The Sydney Roosters player had been doubtful due to ligament damage in his foot which prevented him from training all week and coach Stephen Kearney made the decision to withdraw him before the captain's run.

Parramatta Eels centre Brad Takairangi has been training in Kenny-Dowall's place and could become a third debutant alongside fellow newcomers Dallin Watene-Zelezniak and Manu Ma'u, although Kearney also has the option of moving the versatile Tohu Harris to centre and starting bench player Kodi Nikorima at stand-off.

Kenny-Dowall's withdrawal is the latest setback for the Kiwis after Peta Hiku and Alex Glenn were ruled out earlier in the week, while they are also missing senior players Kieran Foran, Simon Mannering, Dean Whare, Roger Tuivasa-Sheck, Issac Luke, Manu Vatuvei and Ben Matulino for various reasons.

Source: PA-WIRE