Shelford shows skills

Press, 22 June 1984, Page 11

Shelford shows skills

The outstanding performances of the young Hornby forward, Adrian Shelford, in his recent rugby league appearances have brought him strongly into contention for a place in the South Island team for the match against Great Britain on July 25.

Shelford had a most satisfactory debut for Canterbury against West Coast at Greymouth, and a few nights later was the most effective player on the field when Hornby became the first team to topple MaristWestern Suburbs in the premiership. The advance made by Shelford in his first full season for his club’s first XIII confirms the promise he displayed during his progress through the restrictedage grades. A New Zealand 17 years representative in 1981, Shelford was promoted to the Junior Kiwis side which toured Papua New Guinea the next year. Last winter he was again in the Junior Kiwis, and enjoyed a most successful series against the British amateur colts. Shelford was a try-scorer in the first match, won

narrowly by the young Lions. But, even though his name was not on the scoreline, Shelford was even more impressive when New Zealand compiled a handsome, 48-16, victory in the return game.

The commitment and potential of Shelford, Brent Todd, John Green and Terry Jenkins had spectators at Carlaw Park very much aware that the South Island

is still a rich nursery of quality forward play. Although Shelford has for some time been regarded as a second-rower of exceptional talent, it might be as a prop that he establishes himself at the very highest level.

Injuries and first-class duties caused Shelford to be moved up to Hornby’s frontrow, and it was there that he appeared against West Coast. Aged 20, Shelford has the ruggedness and skills to fit the propping role, and the pace developed while in the second-row is an added bonus. His club-mate, Ross Taylor, and the former Kiwi, Wayne Dwyer, have been the regular South Island props this season, and noone would question their qualifications to retain the positions for the encounter with Britain.

It might be that Shelford’s challenge will be to one of the second-rowers, Scott Barrow. Both will be very much under the watchful eyes of the South selectors in the next few weeks.

JOHN COFFEY