England Short-Lists 40 Players For N.Z. Tour

Press, Volume CII, Issue 30058, 16 February 1963, Page 8

England Short-Lists 40 Players For N.Z. Tour

(N.Z.P.A.-Reuter—Copyright)

LONDON, February 15. The English Rugby Football Union last night announced the names of 40 players from whom the team to tour New Zealand this year will be chosen. The first of five matches in New Zealand, including two testa, will be played at Wellington on May 18. The team also will play a test against Australia tn Sydney on June 2 before returning home. The touring team will be announced on March 3. It will leave London on May 11. 19 Internationals Of the 40 players for selection, IS have already played for England, and two others, K. Wilson and D. Perry, are due to make their international debut next week against France. Among those unable to travel are England's captain, R. Sharp, and the full-back. J. Willcox. Both have examinations. The games in New Zealand are likely to be rugged struggles dominated by the forwards. England’s forwards have not shone this season. Because of this is seems almost certain that the veteran 35-year-old propforward, R. Jacobs, will be selected. He did not play at all for England last season, but has collected 22 caps. Ambitious Tour The treasurer of the union (Mr W. C. Ramsay), -who will travel with the Kiglish team, said the tour was a “very ambitious" one.

Mr Ramsay said he did not think It was likely there would

be short tours to Britain by Australia and New Zealand “because of the cost involved.'*

But the matter was subject to discussion at a meeting of the international board in London on March 15, 1964.