Kangaroos name
squad

Australian Kangaroos coach Chris Anderson has announced a 23 man squad for the upcoming tour to New Zealand, France and Great Britain.

Panthers captain, Craig Gower was named alongside team mates Ryan Girdler, Luke Lewis, Trent Waterhouse and Joel Clinton. The 2003 NRL premiers also have three players named in the New Zealand squad which was announced earlier today.

Panthers hooker Luke Priddis however, was overlooked despite his sensational performance in yesterday's Grand Final.

Girdler will miss the first stage of the tour against New Zealand after tearing his calf yesterday.

NRL runners up, the Roosters are also well represented with Craig Wing, Craig Fitzgibbon, Michael Crocker, Luke Ricketson and Anthony Minichiello all being named.

Queensland and Broncos fullback Darren Lockyer was named skipper and Melbourne Storm's Robbie Kearns was named vice captain.

Australia will take on the Kiwis for one Test in New Zealand on October 18 before heading off to Europe.

The Kangaroos will then play against France, England A and Wales before playing a three-Test series against Great Britain.

Squads named today AUSTRALIA: Darren Lockyer (c), Robbie Kearns (vc), Matt Sing, Anthony Minichiello, Luke Lewis, Michael De Vere, Shannon Hegarty, Ryan Girdler, Craig Wing, Craig Gower, Brett Kimmorley, Phil Bailey, Joel Clinton, Danny Buderus, Luke Ricketson, Craig Fitzgibbon, Michael Crocker, Petero Civoniceva, Steve Simpson, Shane Webcke, Willie Mason, Richard Villasanti, Trent Waterhouse.

NEW ZEALAND: Vince Anderson, Monty Betham, Jason Cayless, Nathan Cayless, Henry Fa'afili, Sione Faumuina, Joe Galuvao, Awen Guttenbeil, Wairangi Koopu, Tevita Latu, Ali Lauiti'iti, Thomas Leuluai, Andrew Lomu, Francis Meli, Tony Puletua, Jerry Seuseu, Motu Tony, Clinton Toopi, Paul Whatuira, Ruben Wiki, Nigel Vagana.