Prop set to return

Jared Waerea-Hargreaves will make his international return, while Lewis Brown could be one of the bolters in the Kiwis squad for the Four Nations tournament.

The Roosters prop is regarded as one of the NRL’s most damaging forwards but was a shock omission for the Anzac test in April.

The Kiwis selectors cited a series of ineffective displays against the Kangaroos as the main reason, while poor attitude was also believed to have played a part.

But bridges have been mended and Waerea-Hargreaves will be welcomed back when coach Stephen Kearney names his 24-man squad on Tuesday. His impact cannot be doubted but it has also been recognised that the 1.93m front rower can’t be used for extended spells, as his effectiveness tends to diminish, as occurred when the Roosters lost to the Rabbitohs last week.

Brown last played for the Kiwis in 2011 but has had an impressive season with the Panthers and is being seriously considered. The 28-year-old has an all-action, relentless style but the main appeal is his versatility. He can cover all positions in the back row as well as centre (where the Kiwis lack depth).

Brown could also be a part-time hooker option, especially with Issac Luke suspended for the first match against Australia.

Ben Matulino remains in doubt. The Warriors prop continues to struggle with the effects of his knee surgery in June and it is not certain if he would cope with the rigours of the four-match campaign.