Hape and Tony get Tri-Nations calls

Shontayne Hape (Bradford) and Motu Tony (Hull), who will be on opposite sides in Friday's Super League final eliminator, were reunited on Wednesday in the New Zealand squad for the defence of their Tri-Nations Series title.

Hape and Tony, who were in the side that beat Australia 24-0 in last November's final at Elland Road, are joined by St Helens prop Jason Cayless, who missed the game through injury, and Wakefield second rower David Solomona.

New Zealand coach Brian McClennan has named five uncapped players in his 24-strong squad but Cayless will not be available for the opening game against Australia in Auckland on October 14 because it clashes with the Super League Grand Final.

The newcomers are Melbourne Storm prop Adam Blair, New Zealand Warriors utility forward Epalahame Lauaki, plus centres Simon Mannering (New Zealand Warriors), Steve Matai (Manly) and Isoia Soliola (Sydney Roosters).

The team will be led by record-cap holder Ruben Wiki.