‘They’re all great players’: Hynes and Flegler to debut, Holmes recalled after serving one-game ban

Nicho Hynes will make his Kangaroos debut against New Zealand on the weekend, while a World Cup winner has been recalled following a ban for a controversial social media post.

Valentine Holmes has been named to make his Kangaroos return following a one-game ban for an inappropriate social media post. Picture: NRL Imagery / Stephen Gaunt

The Kangaroos have recalled Valentine Holmes after the Cowboys star missed the opening game of the Pacific Championships due to a one-game ban with rookies Nicho Hynes and Tom Flegler to make their international debuts against New Zealand.

Holmes, who was banned for posting a photo on social media holding a small bag filled with white powder, is one of several changes to the side which beat Samoa, with starting props Payne Haas and Tino Fa’asuamaleaui rested for Saturday’s clash with the Kiwis in Melbourne.

Holmes replaces Broncos winger Selwyn Cobbo who has been listed in the reserves, with State of Origin representatives Jake Trbojevic and Flegler the new starting front-rowers.

Reuben Cotter will start in the back row in place of the rested Liam Martin which opens the door for 2022 Dally M Medal winner Hynes to make his Kangaroos debut off the bench.

“They’re all great players who deserve the opportunity to represent their country,” Kangaroos coach Mal Meninga said.

“It’s really important that our full squad gets exposure to the intensity of international football to build confidence and match fitness for the duration of the Pacific Championships.

Nicho Hynes will make his Kangaroos debut with the Sharks star to come off the bench against New Zealand. Picture: Ian Hitchcock/Getty Images

“Having all players take the field over the course of the first two games means we will be much better placed to handle any of the unknowns, like the possibility of injury or suspension, heading into a final.”

“Right at this point though, our full focus is on this Saturday. It’s a massive game for us against an in-form New Zealand team, and I’ve got a lot of confidence in the players who are coming into the side.”

The Kiwis have named the same 17 that thrashed Samoa 50-0 last week, with Australia and New Zealand to meet again in next week’s final to determine the winner of the Pacific Championships.

Meanwhile, Corey Waddell will return to the Sea Eagles in 2024 following three seasons with the Bulldogs.

The back-rower made his debut with Manly in 2019 and played 36 matches across two seasons before he headed to Belmore where he won just 15 of his 59 games.

Waddell has signed a one-year deal after the Sea Eagles parted ways with edge forward Kelma Tuilagi who has joined Parramatta.

Originally published as ‘They’re all great players’: Hynes and Flegler to debut, Holmes recalled after serving one-game ban