Five Kiwis worth keeping an eye on in NRL action
While all the focus on this side of the Tasman is on the Warriors’ prospects, the Kiwi influence in Australia is now greater than ever. Rugby league writer Marvin France picks out four young players, and one elder statesman, with a point to prove, to watc
KALYN PONGA – COWBOYS Granted, Ponga has yet to decide on his international future but we may as well claim him while we can. Because this kid is something special. Anyone who watched him light up the Nines last month, or cruise through his first-grade debut during last year’s finals series, will tell you that. Ponga has already signed for Newcastle from next season but North Queensland were wise not to let him leave early. Whether at fullback, on the wing or off the bench, the 18-year-old has gamebreaking ability and could be the wildcard that propels the Cowboys to a second premiership in three years. TE MAIRE MARTIN – PANTHERS Steering the ship for a premiership favourite is a lot of responsibility for any playmaker, let alone a 21-year-old with just six games under his belt. Such pressure is unlikely to faze Martin, who kicked the match-winning field goal in his NRL debut while also being selected for the Kiwis Four Nations squad. Named to partner fellow young gun Nathan Cleary in the halves, that combination will be given time to grow. But with back-rower Bryce Cartwright performing so well in the No 6 jersey last year, Martin can’t afford to take too long finding his feet. DANNY LEVI – KNIGHTS Having made 25 appearances since his first-grade debut in 2015, Levi’s star has been on the rise for some time. But Knights coach Nathan Brown has backed the 21-year-old Wellington-born rake to come of age in 2017. As sharp between the ears as he is around the ruck, Levi was the Kiwis’ 19th man in last year’s Anzac test before a back injury ruled him out of contention for the Four Nations. With a shortage of experienced hookers outside of Issac Luke, a strong season is sure to have him in coach David Kidwell’s plans for the World Cup. GETTY IMAGES
JOSEPH MANU – ROOSTERS The 20-year-old winger has served stellar apprenticeship in the Roosters’ lower grades, twice earning selection in the NYC Team of the Year and playing a key role in their triumph at the Auckland Nines last month. With the likes of Shaun Kenny-Dowall, Blake Ferguson, Latrell Mitchell and Daniel Tupou, the Roosters are well stocked with outside backs but Manu is highly regarded by coach Trent Robinson. And having had a taste of first grade last year, including an impressive debut against the Warriors, those players will be wary of giving the Tokoroaborn flyer another chance in the top grade. BENJI MARSHALL – BRONCOS Make the most of watching the Kiwis legend because it be his last hurrah in the NRL. Unwanted by the Dragons, Marshall has been thrown a lifeline by the Broncos where he will be hoping super coach Wayne Bennett can help him rekindle the magic which, to be honest, hasn’t been seen on a regular basis since before his illfated move to rugby. With Ben Hunt and Anthony Milford the established halves, the 32-yearold will have to settle for a background role. But the chance to focus on his own game – minus the pressure of being the team’s go-to guy – could be exactly what he needs.