1939 N.Z.U. Rugby Blues

New Zealand Blues were gained this year by Burke, McNicol, and Hansen. In a forward side that literally overwhelmed Canterbury on the King's Birthday, the inclusion of this trio is some reflection of the general excellence of all the packs in the club. McNicol has further strengthened his chances as an All Black prospect for next year by his slashing game for the Wellington reps, against Taranaki last Wednesday. Mac has already represented Wanganui and King Country, and a little improvement on his present form should at least carry him into the trials in September.

Over the last three weeks, Burke's form, both in his all round forward play and as a hooker, has been well up to representative standard. His lack of weight does not detract from the all-round quality of his game, and it was unfortunate that Lambourne was not in the Petone scrum last week, when the merits of the two men could have been definitely decided. Hansen, better known perhaps as the skipper of the V.U.C. Rowing Eight, is a good solid forward whose hard work in-the tight, and rugged determination in the loose should carry him to higher honours in the next year or two.

—O.J.C.