The New Zealand rugby league coach Michael Maguire denies he's named a development team to play England in Denver.
One of the least experienced Kiwi squads in recent history was unveiled by rookie international coach Maguire for this weekend's Test in the United States.
Just three forwards and five backs have returned from the New Zealand squad eliminated in the World Cup quarter-finals seven months ago.
Maguire is intent on creating a new culture and, despite naming seven uncapped Kiwis in his 19-strong squad, he believes they have the ability to beat a strong English outfit.
The former South Sydney premiership mentor was most indignant at suggestions he'd picked players with an eye to the future rather thank winning this week.
Veteran hooker Issac Luke. Photo: Photosport
"There's no way in the world I'd imagine that when you're playing for your country that you'd call it a development side," Magure said.
"I'm looking forward to being able to take this group away and create a standard of our own.
"Sometimes when you bring a lot of young guys in, that hunger and excitement around playing can lift the jersey to new heights."
Veteran hooker Issac Luke, who worked closely with Maguire at Souths, is expected to be confirmed as the team's unofficial "leader" once they arrive in Denver.
He would claim that role from Warriors teammate Adam Blair, who is missing the Test through suspension.
Three practice sessions have been planned, allowing them a chance to build combinations based around the green halves pairing of Te Maire Martin and Kodi Nikorima.
Props Martin Taupau and Jared Waerea-Hargreaves join Luke as the team's most capped players.
Maguire wants others to join them as leaders in what will be a steep learning curve in a new environment.
"We're planning to spend a bit of time enjoying each other's company away from the footy field but I know (that will change) when we walk out onto the training park," he said.
-AAP
