Shelford expected to make S.I. debut

Press, 24 July 1984, Page 40

Shelford expected to make S.I. debut

By

JOHN COFFEY

Adrian Shelford, one of the most promising young rugby league forwards in New Zealand, is expected to make his debut for the South Island against Great Britain at the Show Grounds tomorrow evening. Although Shelford’s career includes only one first-class match, and that at prop for Canterbury against West Coast last month, he is likely to be in the South second-row against the tourists. To gain admittance to the South pack, Shelford will need to displace either the New Zealand Maoris representative, Russell Tuuta, or the other regular island second-rower, Scott Barrow.

Shelford has been in outstanding form for his Hornby club this winter and,

at 20 years of age, has the physical attributes and developing skills to go on to higher honours. He has already been chosen for his country at 17 years and Junior Kiwis levels. The South coach, Ray Haffenden, has yet to decide on his starting line-up from the 17-man squad. Any fitness doubts will be checked when the West Coast and Otago-Southland players assemble with the Canterbury contingent for training at the Show Grounds this afternoon. “I might not name the actual playing 13 until the day of the game to keep all members of the squad on their toes,” said Mr Haffenden. If Shelford is included he will not be the only newcomer to the South Island

ranks. The Otago-Southland outside back, Mike McDonald, has also been chosen for the first time and is the probable centre partner for the versatile West Coaster, Boyd Kilkelly. It seems inevitable that Britain will reluctantly have to field several test players because of its long injury list. The coach, Frank Myler, would have much preferred to have rested the men he intends using in the third test against the Kiwis at Auckland next Saturday. Kevin Roberts, of Sydney, will referee the third test at Auckland. Mr Roberts impressed with his control of the opening match of the series and has been preferred ahead of another Sydney official, Barry Barnes, who refereed the second test.