Vodafone Warriors captain Simon Mannering is to miss next week’s Harvey Norman League All Stars match in Brisbane to support his partner following the birth of the couple’s second child last night.
As Kiwi captain, Mannering was an automatic original selection in the Wayne Bennett-coached World All Stars squad but withdrew from the side today after his partner Anna Bensemann delivered their second son.
“We’re all delighted for Simon and Anna,” said Vodafone Warriors managing director Jim Doyle.
“I know Simon was looking forward to playing for the All Stars but it’s far more important for him to stay at home to be with Anna at this time.”
The World All Stars face the Indigenous All Stars at Suncorp Stadium on February 13.
