Kalyn Ponga is in line to make a miraculous return from a broken arm for New Zealand in the World Cup semi-final, while Phoenix Crossland could play his first game since he was sent off for a tackle that resulted in Nathan Cleary’s shocking leg injury.
Ponga was magnificent on debut for the Kiwis in the tournament opener on October 15 but was unable to finish the match after he injured his arm.
He has been named on an extended bench but is expected to replace Keano Kini at fullback for Saturday’s game against Tonga.
Crossland is also lurking in the reserves and could be a bench utility option having served a four-game ban for his hip-drop tackle in the preliminary final.
Stacey Jones has named Charnze Nicoll-Klokstad on the wing to replace the suspended Ronaldo Mulitalo, while it’s all smooth sailing for Tonga after their epic win over Samoa last week.
Kangaroos coach Kevin Walters has stuck with the same 13 that beat the Cook Islands which means Latrell Mitchell remains on the bench.
Outstanding forward Cameron Murray has been named on the interchange after he missed last week’s game with a calf issue that forced him to train away from teammates on Tuesday.
“Samoa were very impressive in a physical battle which had a lot of emotion last weekend against Tonga and we know we are in for a tough contest on Sunday night,” Walters said.
“It’s going to be a great occasion in front of a full house at Allianz Stadium, and we’ve got to meet the occasion with our best performance of the tournament.”
Samoa has been forced to make a massive change in the halves with Ronald Volkman to start with Chanel Harris-Tavita ruled out after he injured his hamstring while taking a shot at goal.
Volkman scored a try last week and played well when given a chance for the Eels this year.
Jillaroos coach Jess Skinner has brought back the big guns who were rested for last week’s record-breaking win over Wales.
There is no room for Jesse Southwell who scored 44 points in the victory, with premiership star Jocelyn Kelleher to start after dominating in her first two games for her country.
“I have been impressed with how Fiji have come into the tournament this year and displayed their style of football across the park,” Skinner said.
“As Jillaroos, we have been looking to build each game and know we will be well prepared to face Fiji on Sunday.”
Originally published as Kalyn Ponga poised for stunning Kiwis comeback after broken arm, Walters makes major Latrell call