RUGBY LEAGUE

Evening Post, Volume CXXV, Issue 100, 30 April 1938, Page 23

RUGBY LEAGUE

AUSTRALIAN TOUR

CHANGE OF UNIFORM

At the New Zealand Rugby League conference held in Auckland early this year a suggestion was made that the Rugby League abandon the traditional all black uniform. The opinion was expressed that all black was too drab and that it did not do justice to the bearing and physique of New Zealand teams. Many speakers contended that English and Australian Rugby League teams had a big advantage over New Zealand teams in that respect.

Nevertheless, the majority of the delegates opposed any change from the black, but agreed to a suggestion made by Mr. W. T. Holland that more white be introduced into the jersey and' that the design be modernised. He submitted the design to the New Zealand Rugby League Council, and that body has approved of the change. I The new uniform will be worn by the New Zealand team to tour Australia this year. . . MEN KEEN. No international or other overseas team is to visit New Zealand under the Rugby League this season. At least that is how matters stand at the present. It,is just possible, however, that the New Zealand Rugby League will invite the New South Wales. Country Rugby League to tour the Dominion towards the end of the season. Largely due perhaps to well-merited victories by the Kiwis (second Test) and the New Zealand Maori team over the Australian side last season, the ambition has been stirred of players to make every endeavour to win their way into the New Zealand Rugby League team to leave for Australia on May 31. This is a tour which will give the League players wonderful advantages if they reveal the right qualities.

The team to visit Australia will carry a big responsibility. If, however, as one expects, the selectors do not have any great difficulty in choosing twenty-six players of marked teaming possibilities, under a wise captain, judicious management, and with the right sort of luck in relation to injured players, the New Zealanders should do well. NOTES ON PLAYERS. J. Cootes, the Wellington and New Zealand Rugby Leagtie front-row forward, revealed great form in last Saturday's friendly match between St. George and Petone. Jack Corrian will act as playercoach to the Petone senior team this season. A very popular club manf he should succeed in getting the very best results from the players.

It is expected that Cyril Berry will

be playing for Randwick. A good type of forward, Berry captained Central last season and played in the New Zealand trial matches at Auckland.