Two tests likely for 1988 Kiwis

Press, 28 July 1987, Page 40

Two tests likely for 1988 Kiwis

By

JOHN COFFEY

Australia will almost certainly have to wait until 1989 before it has an opportunity to avenge last week’s sensational rugby league test defeat by New Zealand.

While the international programme for next season is still to be confirmed, the Kiwis are likely to have one-off home fixtures against Great Britain and Papua New Guinea.

The British were originally expected to repeat their 1984 itinerary, which included three tests in both Australia and New Zealand and one in Papua New Guinea. Their sole success on that trip was at Port Moresby, and British administrators do not wish to repeat that experience.

“In future Britain wants to visit New Zealand and Papua New Guinea as separate tours from those to Australia,” said the New Zealand Rugby League executive director, Mike Knowles, from Auckland yesterday. Negotiations are still

continuing, but the N.Z.R.L. has asked British officials to schedule two other games, in addition to the test, in New Zealand. No decision has yet been made as to the test venue, said Mr Knowles. The test will almost certainly be on Sunday, July 17 — the week-end between the third AustraliaBritain international on July 10 and Australia’s Bicentennial fixture against the Rest of the World on July 23.

“Once that is finalised we will be able to contact Papua New Guinea,” said Mr Knowles.

Both home ties against Britain and Papua New Guinea count for World Cup points, ' though the Australians have shown no interest in a New Zealand suggestion of an actual grand final to that competition. Australia, happily ahead, is content

to stay with a round-robin format.

Any suggestion of the Kiwis again confronting the Kangaroos, either in this country or overseas, was just speculation, said Mr Knowles. The Australians are next due to tour New Zealand in 1989, before the Kiwis travel to Britain and France.

“Any talk of playing Australia is only kite flying,” said Mr Knowles. “I am more concerned with the realities of the programme we do have.” It is possible that Western Australia will make its first visit at representative level, meeting minor leagues “and one of the stronger provinces,” while the N.Z.R.L. is keen to continue its policy of pitting New Zealand-resident teams against Queensland opponents even after a Brisbane side enters the 1988 Sydney premiership.