Nick Horvarth the latest to withdraw from Tall Blacks trial
The number of Tall Blacks unavailable for the upcoming tour to China seems to be increasing by the day. Already deprived of the services of Kirk Penney, Rob Loe, Leon Henry and others, Nick Horvath is the latest player to pull out. Horvath’s wife is expecting a child in the near future and the big centre has opted to remain at home in Palmerston North rather than committ to this year’s international programme.
Of more serious concern was the absence from the first training session today of Lindsay Tait and Alex Pledger. Tait is having further scans on his injured hand, a suspected fracture would almost certainly rule him out of the China tour and the home and away series against Australia. Pledger’s absence was less clear, Tall Blacks management citing personal issues being the reason for his none presence.
A couple of new caps in the international team looked likely when the squad was first announced – they now look certain. The team will be announced on Thursday morning.
LACEY LOWDOWN 