Two squads named to prepare for Otago trial

SOME interesting faces feature in two trial squads to prepare for the Otago season.

It might seem early to be talking about the NPC — it does not kick off until August 4 — but the Otago coaches are keen to spread the net to find more players capable of making the step up.

Two 26man squads will train every Wednesday night before a trial at the University Oval on June 14.

Familiar faces in the Blue squad include Taieri hooker Brady Robertson, who made his Otago debut last year, and a trio of recent North Otago players in Southern first five Ben McCarthy, University fullback Jermaine Pepe and Harbour loose forward Toni Taufa.

Magpies loosie Harry Taylor has been arguably the form player in Dunedin club rugby this season, Kaikorai lock Harrison Morton has immense promise, and Kaikorai winger Mefi Tupou has been on the radar since arriving in the South.

Bob Martin (halfback) and Oscar SchmidtUili (winger) will be eager to shine in positions that have not been particularly settled for Otago in recent times.

The highestprofile player in the Gold squad is halfback Nathan Hastie, who made his debut for the Highlanders this year.

Taieri and former Melbourne Rebels lock Josh Hill is on the comeback trail from injury, and there will be some interest in how Dunedin youngsters Rohan Wingham and Rueben Palmer go at this level.

New Zealand representatives

Universities Ale Aho,

Jeremiah Asi and Aaron Withy are joined by recent John McGlashan star Josh Whaanga and impressive Green Island prop Ben Lopas.

A feature of the squads is the presence of some Otago Country talent.

Maniototo outside back Doug Smith will come to town with the Upper Clutha trio of Tristian Taylor, Reece White and Lachie Garrick.