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Egan given chance to impress in NRL trial

3 minute read

Warriors recruit Wayde Egan has recovered from shoulder surgery and will start at hooker in their NRL trial game against Melbourne.

WAYDE EGAN of the Panthers passes the ball during the NRL trial match between the South Sydney Rabbitohs and the Penrith Panthers at Redfern Oval in Sydney, Australia.
WAYDE EGAN of the Panthers passes the ball during the NRL trial match between the South Sydney Rabbitohs and the Penrith Panthers at Redfern Oval in Sydney, Australia. Picture: Brett Hemmings/Getty Images

Wayde Egan and Chanel Harris-Tavita will get first crack at the Warriors' two most contentious positions after being named for their opening NRL trial.

Recruit Egan has completed a rapid recovery from off-season shoulder surgery and will start at hooker in Saturday's match against Melbourne in Palmerston North.

The 22-year-old, who started in just seven of his 29 appearances at Penrith, is expected to assume the starting role after the departure of Issac Luke.

Utility Karl Lawton remains a candidate if his shoulder heals in time for round one but he hasn't been named in the opening trial team, which is minus the majority of the Warriors' first-choice forwards.

The backline has a slightly more proven feel with all eyes on Harris-Tavita, who enjoyed an excellent rookie campaign last year and is in a duel with Kodi Nikorima to wear No.6 and partner halfback Blake Green.

Harris-Tavita's clash with fellow 20-year-old Cooper Johns will shine the spotlight on two of rugby league's more talented young halves.

The Warriors' starting fullback will be Rocco Berry, who was playing secondary school rugby union last year.

Coach Stephen Kearney spoke in glowing terms of the 18-year-old, who is the son of former All Black Marty Berry.

Warriors starting team: Rocco Berry, Patrick Herbert, Hayze Perham, David Fusitu'a, Edward Kosi, Chanel Harris-Tavita, Adam Keighran, Phillip Makatoa, Wayde Egan, Sam Lisone, Taane Milne, Eliesa Katoa, Lachlan Burr.

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