NZ call up Toeava for SA match

2008-08-06 07:44

Wellington - Versatile back Isaia Toeava has replaced fullback Leon MacDonald in New Zealand's squad to meet South Africa in rugby's Tri-Nations series.

MacDonald was ruled out because of the lingering effects of concussion and Toeava recalled for the first time this season. The Blues player last played for New Zealand at last year's World Cup.

"Isaia is currently at fullback for the Blues and has played there previously at the international and the Super 14 levell," All Blacks coach Graham Henry said.

"He's also got the ability to play elsewhere in the backline which is helpful when we are a long way from home.

"Leon is improving but the medical advice is to take things slowly. He'll gradually get back into exercise and then training and then may look to play an Air New Zealand Cup match."

Winger Rudi Wulf will also not travel to South Africa. The All Blacks have instead chosen to take three halfbacks, adding Piri Weepu to the existing squad.

New Zealand, having played one more game than its rivals, heads the Tri-Nations table and next plays world champion South Africa at Cape Town on Aug. 16.

- AP