Warriors Spring Surprises in 7's
Squad

Francis Meli will take over the leadership of the Warriors' sevens team in the world tournament at Sydney later this month. The original captain, Sione Faumuina, is struggling with his fitness.

A strong 11-man squad includes five top-grade regulars, newcomer and goal-kicker Tony Martin, and three development players.

There are no props.

Coach Daniel Anderson is not happy with the four-tackle rule to be played at this tournament and blames it for an absence of the big men, but the Warriors are set to unleash another "secret weapon" in 110kg, 1.9m winger Manu Vituvae.

The teenager has been in the Warriors' sights for three years and played in the B side pre-season trial against Cronulla at Albany last year, standing out with his shock of sun-coloured hair and his busting runs.

NZ Warriors sevens team: Francis Meli, Ali Lauiti'iti, Clinton Toopi, Karl Te Mata, Thomas Leuluai, Wairangi Koopu, Brent Webb, Tony Martin, Louis Anderson, Hame Lauaki, Manu Vituvae.