Australian side named

The Australian team for the test against New Zealand this Saturday night has been named. It is a much different looking team this year with some fresh faces replacing the injured and retiring players who are not available for this tour.

There is still speculation as to whether the match will be shown on free to air TV as the test clashes with the second cricket test between Australia and Zimbabwe at the SCG. The only thing we do know is there will be a replay of the test on Foxtel on Saturday night, which is a disgrace.

The ARL must ensure if channel nine can?t show the match live they do the right thing and give the match to Foxtel who can show it live.

Again, Rugby League in Australia is treated with contempt by the free to air broadcaster and the federal government has a duty to the public to ensure major sporting events involving Australian teams are shown live and on free to air where possible.

Australian side:

Fullback - Darren Lockyer, (Brisbane Broncos) Wing - Anthony Minichiello, (Sydney Roosters) Centre - Shannon Hegarty, (Sydney Roosters) Centre - Michael De Vere, (Brisbane Broncos) Wing - Matt Sing, (Nth Queensland Cowboys) Five Eighth - Craig Wing, (Sydney Roosters) Half Back - Brett Kimmorley, (Cronulla Sharks) Lock Forward - Luke Ricketson, (Sydney Roosters) Second Row - Craig Fitzgibbon, (Sydney Roosters) Second Row - Steve Simpson, (Brisbane Broncos) Prop Forward - Robbie Kearns, (Melbourne Storm) Hooker - Danny Buderus, (Newcastle Knights) Prop Forward - Shane Webcke, (Brisbane Broncos)

Interchange - Willie Mason, (Bulldogs) Interchange - Richard Villasanti, (Warriors) Interchange - Phil Bailey, Cronulla (Sharks) Interchange - Craig Gower, Penrith (Panthers)