RUGBY FAREWELL TO GISBORNE’S MAORI ALL BLACKS

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXXVI, Issue 22941, 9 May 1949, Page 3

RUGBY FAREWELL TO GISBORNE’S MAORI ALL BLACKS

During the half-time break in the Celtic-Old Boys senior Rugby competition game at the Gisborne Oval on Saturday, R. McKinley and W. Carrington were called up before the grandstand and congratulated on their selection as members of the Maori All Black team to tour Australia in the near future.

Speaking on behalf of the P.B. Rugby Union, Mr. *K. F. Jones said the two players had outstanding ability on the Rugby field and the Celtic club was indeed fortunate to have their services. Their selection also reflected great credit on the club. Rugby supporters in Gisborne would follow the tour with interest and would expect to hear of their successes, continued Mr. Jones. While they were on tour, he assured the players that their interests in Gisborne would be carefully watched by their elubmates and they would have the backing of the union. Extending the congratulations of the Maori people, Mr. W, Nikora said there had been criticism concerning the hurriedness of the selection, but it was now realised that the selectors and the New Zealand Rugby Union had been watchful and in possession of certain information unknown to the general public. It was necessary to bow to their decision. The Gisborne selection, he considered, was most satisfactory. Mr. Nikora asked the two players who were going overseas as representatives of the Maori people to remember the three gods of the early warriors of the race, and in particular the god of competition. In conclusion, he wished them the best of luck and God speed. In answer to a call for three cheers, the crowd on the grandstand responded wholeheartedly.