Remember This Name - Epalahame
Lauaki

His name doesn't appear in the National Rugby League media guide and he receives only scant mention on the New Zealand Warriors' website.

But that hasn't stopped 20-year-old forward Epalahame Lauaki making his first grade debut in the Warriors' NRL season opener against the Brisbane Broncos at Suncorp Stadium on Sunday.

While details of the former NZ development squad member are sketchy - he doesn't even have a photo on the Warriors website - the youngster hopes to provide a "warm" introduction to the Broncos pack this weekend.

Young second-rower Lauaki and former Melbourne centre Tony Martin will both make their debut from the bench for the Warriors after being named in a class outfit by coach Daniel Anderson on Tuesday.

A spate of injuries has ensured Lauaki will receive a baptism of fire against the likes of Shane Webcke and Petero Civoniceva.

The Warriors' injury list includes pivot Lance Hohaia (knee), hooker PJ Marsh (neck), back-up hooker Tevita Latu (knee)and prop Richard Villasanti (knee).

Much to the relief of Warriors fans, New Zealand will feature halfback Stacey Jones, who was rested throughout the pre-season as he recovered from groin and ankle surgery.

He will chime into the halves with Thomas Leuluai, who comes in for Hohaia, who has not fully recovered from a full knee reconstruction last season.

"Epalahame was very close to top-grade selection last year, and his very strong trial form has resulted in an opportunity presenting itself for him," Anderson said.

"Tony's exemplary off-season preparation and the versatility that he offers both contributed greatly to his inclusion."

Lauaki only joined the Warriors development squad two years ago - ensuring some rivalrys in the family home.

His older brother Sione is impressing in rugby union with the Chiefs and recently came off the bench for the Super 12 team and scored a try.

"My dad, Kepu, loves rugby and mum, Melefale, loves league," he told League Correspondent.

"Whenever they get a chance to watch us play they always make sure one watches me and the other watches my brother."

Martin - who is also a specialist goalkicker - arrived with an impressive resume after stints with the Storm and the London Broncos.

Winger Henry Fa'afili will travel with the team as the 18th squad member.

The Warriors will again be skippered by Monty Betham, who returns to hooker in Marsh's absence.

Despite the injury concerns, Anderson said he was confident he had the arsenal for a title push in 2004.

Warriors: Brent Webb, Justin Murphy, Vinnie Anderson, Clinton Toopi, Francis Meli, Thomas Leuluai, Stacey Jones, Jerry Seuseu, Monty Betham (c), Iafeta Palea'aesina, Sione Faumuina, Ali Lauiti'iti, Awen Guttenbeil. Interchange: Karl Temata, Wairangi Koopu, Tony Martin, Epalahame Lauaki.