LeagueNews.co | Jess Malloy
Retiring star Kieran Foran and off-contract player Nelson Asofa-Solomona highlight a group of six 2023 title winners included in New Zealand's squad for the opening match of the Pacific Championships on Sunday.
All six were instrumental in coach Michael Maguire's Kiwi team that achieved a remarkable 30-0 victory over Australia in the 2023 final in Hamilton, although they were unavailable for the previous year's tournament.
Foran's selection is noteworthy, as the 35-year-old is set to surpass Benji Marshall, establishing a new record for the longest duration representing New Zealand.
Having made his international debut in 2009, this tournament will serve as Foran's farewell to rugby league after concluding his NRL career with the Gold Coast this season.
Asofa-Solomona's future remains uncertain; the towering prop has sought a release from Melbourne to explore other opportunities, including a potential transition to rugby.
In the front row, Leota has reunited with his long-time Panthers teammate and Kiwi captain James Fisher-Harris, while Nikora returns to the second row, with Asofa-Solomona positioned on the interchange bench.
Dolphins hooker Jeremy Marshall-King is also making a Test comeback, three years after his only international appearances against Lebanon and Jamaica during the 2022 Rugby League World Cup.