Kiwis confirm Phoenix Crossland as Jacob Laban's replacement for semi-final

The New Zealand Kiwis will face Tonga in the Rugby League World Cup semi-final after losing Jacob Laban to a lower-leg injury. Laban's injury, confirmed after a missed training session, rules him out for the remainder of the tournament. Phoenix Crossland, who was serving a four-match ban, has been named as Laban's replacement and has been training with the squad. Kiwis head coach Stacey Jones expressed disappointment over Laban's injury, especially considering his strong season with the Warriors. The Kiwis are preparing for their match on Saturday at McDonald Stadium in Newcastle after a decisive 78-0 victory against Fiji.

• 8:34 AMZero Tackle NRL — Kiwis suffer injury blow, but confirm surprise replacement