Three Manawatu¯ players named in Schools Baabaas
Three Manawatu¯ players have been named in the New Zealand Schools Barbarians team to play matches against Tonga and the New Zealand Maori under-18s.
Palmerston North Boys’ High School wing James Stratton, Feilding High School centre Josiah Maraku and prop Ethan Mcquinlan were named in the team on Sunday night.
The players had been part of a three-day development camp in Palmerston North. Stratton turned down his school’s first XV tour to the UK to be involved.
Mcquinlan initially missed the development camp, but was called in after injuries created gaps for the Brad Mooar-coached team.
Mooar said his team had an exciting mix of players with the potential to produce exciting rugby.
‘‘It’s a talented group that has a good mix of power, size and skill. We want to see them express themselves on the field and represent the Barbarians Club with pride.’’
The Barbarians have two matches against Tonga Schools and New Zealand Ma¯ ori under-18s in Palmerston North.
Meanwhile, six members of the national champion Hasting Boys’ High School first XV have been named in the New Zealand Secondary Schools squad.
Hastings first five-eighth Lincoln Mcclutchie, fullback Danny Toala, wing Kini Naholo, prop Josiah Tavita-metcalfe, who is from Levin, No 8 Devan Flanders and flanker Jeriah Mua will all play prominent roles following their unbeaten season including the national first XV final 25-17 win over Hamilton BHS.
Flanker Charles Alaimalo and midfielders Tauterangimarie Kapea and Quinn Tupaea represent Hamilton in the side.
Coach Jason Holland said it was a tough group to name.
‘‘The camp has been very high quality and the players have really applied themselves over the past few days,’’ he said. ‘‘The guys have come to us in good nick and we’ve got a squad with strength and depth across all positions.