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Rokococo to make Sevens comeback?

Thursday 15 January 2009

New Zealand Sevens coach Gordon Tietjens has been given the all clear for a raid on the Super 14. The NZRU has told Tietjens says he can pick up to five players from New Zealand's Super 14 squads for March's World Cup in Dubai.

Tietjens says Blue's Joe Rokococo and Isaiah Toeava  and Hurricane's fullback Cory Jane, all fellow former sevens stars, will be firmly on his radar when it comes time to select his World Cup squad.

Rangy winger Rokococo, known as Smokin’ Joe in rugby circles, rapidly made a name for himself as 19 year old on the 2002 IRB 7s circuit scoring consistently. It proved a massive springboard for the Fijian born flyer who made his All Black debut a year later scoring 25 tries in his first 20 tests.

Tietjens gave Auckland’s Toeava his Sevens debut in 2005, the same year he was the IRB's Under-19 2005 player of the year. With 25 All Black caps to his name, Toeava's versatility and athleticism allow him to play anywhere in the back division and is regarded as one of the best sevens exponents around.

Speedster Corey Jane was a member of the 2006 Commonwealth Games gold medal winning New Zealand side. A recent tourist to the UK with the All Blacks, Jane’s speed of foot and mind suits him to 7s and would be a welcome addition.

With other Super 14 players available for Tietjens, the Kiwis look hungry and committed to claiming back the trophy they last won in 2001.

Next week Tietjens will run a four day camp and trial at Mount Maunganui after which he will whittle a 24 strong squad down to 17 for next month's Wellington leg of the IRB World Series.

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