Wing to replace Finch at Roosters

Roosters coach Ricky Stuart this morning named versatile hooker Craig Wing as Brett Finch?s replacement at five-eighth for the opening rounds of the 2005 NRL season.

Wing won out over Queensland star Chris Flannery, who will line up in the back-row to compensate for the absence of injured Maroons team-mate Mick Crocker.

Stuart said Wing ? who helped guide the club to the 2002 title from halfback ? was prepared to handle the switch from dummy-half.

?We?ve been training him in the halves since he returned from last year?s Tri Nations tour,? Stuart said.

?I feel he?s comfortable in those areas, and that it?s the best place to play him.?

Stuart Webb ? the standout player during the Roosters? pre season trials ? will replace Wing at hooker.