star-studded Indigenous side against the New Zealand Maori in the season opener at AAMI Park on February 15.
The All Stars concept has been revamped after a one-year break following the Rugby League World Cup. The Maori team replaces the World All Stars, giving the event a fresh flavour in a new location. South Sydney centre Dane Gagai was eligible for both teams and chose the Maori.
The match will give Newcastle fans a chance to see how wonder kid Kalyn Ponga handles the shift into the halves after coach Nathan Brown indicated he will make the move from fullback to five-eighth. Ponga’s teammates include halves partner Jarome Hughes, fellow youngsters Brandon Smith and Esarn Marsters, and veterans Adam Blair, Peta Hiku and James Tamou.
Indigenous All Stars: Ben Barba (Cowboys), Blake Ferguson (Eels), Latrell Mitchell (Roosters), James Roberts (Broncos), Josh Addo-Carr (Storm), Cody Walker (Rabbitohs), Tyrone Roberts (Titans), Andrew Fifita (Sharks), Nathan Peats (Titans), Ryan James (Titans), David Fifita (Broncos), Adam Elliott (Bulldogs), Tyrone Peachey (Titans). Reserves: Will Chambers (Storm), Leilani Latu (Titans), Chris Smith (Bulldogs), Alex Johnston (Rabbitohs), Jesse Ramien (Knights), Tyrell Fuimaono (Panthers), Kotoni Staggs (Broncos).
Maori All Stars: Peta Hiku (Warriors), Dane Gagai (Rabbitohs), Esan Marsters (Tigers), Dean Whare (Panthers), Jordan Kahu (Broncos), Kalyn Ponga (Knights), Jahrome Hughes (Storm), Jesse Bromwich (Storm), Brandon Smith (Storm), Jordan McLean (Cowboys), Kevin Proctor (Titans), Tohu Harris (Warriors), Adam Blair (Warriors). Reserves: Danny Levi (Knights), Brad Takairangi (Eels), James Fisher-Harris (Panthers), James Tamou (Panthers), Gerard Beale (Warriors), Corey Harawira-Naera (Bulldogs), Joseph Tapine (Raiders).