Rugby League World Cup: Kiwis and Kiwi Ferns named for opener
Dane Gagai has been named to the New Zealand Kiwis squad for the Rugby League World Cup, becoming the second-oldest debutant in the team's history. He will be joined by Kalyn Ponga as the team prepares for their opening match against Australia.
Why it matters
The selection of experienced players and the eligibility switch of high-profile athletes are key developments in international rugby league competition.
Dane Gagai will become the second oldest Test debutant in New Zealand rugby league history when he takes the field for the Kiwis' opening game of the Rugby League World Cup on Thursday.
The 35-year-old will be joined by fellow first-time Kiwi Kalyn Ponga against defending champions Australia in Sydney.
Named in the centres, Gagai will run out for the Kiwis nine years after playing the first of his seven Tests for the Kangaroos in the opening match of the 2017 World Cup in Melbourne.
Alf Chorley has the record as the Kiwis' oldest debutant. He was was 36 years 46 days when New Zealand played Great Britain in 1910 while Canterbury hooker Jim Fisher, who passed away just last month at the age of 85, was the next oldest at 30 years 75 days when he lined up in the first Test against Great Britain in Salford in 1971.
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