SOUTH AFRICAN TOUR PROSPECTS IMPROVE

Greymouth Evening Star, 16 April 1947, Page 9

SOUTH AFRICAN TOUR PROSPECTS IMPROVE

(P.A.) WELLINGTON, April 15. Prospects for the Rugby tour of South Africa eventuating next year were brightened today by a statement made to the executive of the New Zealand Rugby Union by the chairman,. Mr S. S. Dean. He said shipping difficulties would probably be eased by the return of the Dominion Monarch to her normal peace-time service next year. Mr Dean said he understood that the Dominion Monarch was being reconverted, and that the work would be completed by the end of the year Mr J. Prendeville said he did not think that the Dominion Monarch would be commissioned until May. Mr T C. Morrison: That would suit us all right, as long as we got the team away before the end o to how many tests there should be in South Africa, Mr, Dean said he thought that three would be I ample. There was no dissension 'from that opinion. ■ A cablegram is to be sent to ttm South African Union requesting a. report on shipping by the time of the annual meeting, April 24. Ranfurly Shield Holders

The Southland Rugby selector will have several vacancies to till when he sorts out a side to defend the Ranfurly Shield this season Hei wont have the services of at least ioui members of last season s team. E. • Walker is now on the V est Coast, K. D. Cody and R. F. Waldron will be playing in Dunedin and A. G. Sutherland' - is not available. Sorenson May Turn To League Football Following the news that P. C. Callanan, Christchurch, the former South Island Rugby representative full-back, has changed to the 13-a--side code this season comes a rumour from Auckland that Bob Sorenson, the Marist Club man, who has filled the same position’ for North, will be playing League this season. It is understood that two clubs have been discussing him, but so far nothing has materialised. Should he turn to League, then no doubt both he and Callanan would have prospects of selection in the New Zealand side scheduled to tour England this year.

Grey Loco Team The Greymouth Loco team in its first match of the season defeated Magpies at Camerons on Sunday by nine points to three. Stokes, Watson and French scored for Loco and Honey for Magpies.