News

Toeava replaces MacDonald on tour

August 06 2008

Auckland utility back Isaia Toeava has been called into the All Blacks squad for the Tri-Nations clach against South Africa in Cape Town.

Toeava joins the squad as a replacement for injured full-back Leon MacDonald, who continues to battle another bout of concussion.

Toeava, 22, has played 15 Tests for New Zealand, but had been unwanted this season.

"He's got the ability to play elsewhere in the back-line which is helpful when we are a long way from home," coach Graham Henry told NZPA.

The latest incident of concussion forced MacDonald out of the team who beat Australia 39-10 in Auckland last Saturday.

His condition continues to be monitored and All Blacks management do not want to rush him back until they are certain he is 100 per cent right.

"Leon is improving, but the medical advice is to take things slowly," Henry said.

"He'll gradually get back into exercise and then training and then may look to play an Air New Zealand Cup match (for Canterbury)."

MacDonald will not be the only player missing when the New Zealanders leave for South Africa.

Also staying at home will be winger Rudi Wulf, because the selectors have opted to include three half-backs in the 26-man squad.

That means Piri Weepu will fly out with the team on Friday morning after playing for Wellington against Air New Zealand Cup rivals North Harbour on Thursday night.

While Wulf sprained a knee playing for North Harbour last weekend, he could be able to resume training this week.

However, Henry said the All Blacks needed to omit a player from the travelling squad, and Wulf's injury question mark tipped the decision.