Australian Rugby
Martin to lead Wallabies in Christchurch fundraiser
ESPNscrum Staff
March 9, 2011

Former Australia fullback Greg Martin will skipper a Classic Wallabies selection against their All Black counterparts in Brisbane on Thursday in an effort to raise funds following the devastating Christchurch earthquake.

Martin, now a well-known commentator, came up with the idea for the clash and will line up alongside such legendary figures as David Campese, Tim Horan, Toutai Kefu and George Gregan in front of an anticipated crowd of 20,000 at Ballymore.

The Classic All Blacks will be captained by flanker Reuben Thorne and include the likes of Justin Marshall, Christian Cullen and Jeff Wilson among their number.

Former Australia playmaker Pat Howard will also be on duty and the ex-Leicester boss has praised the work of Martin.

"The Classics (All Blacks) have pulled together what is an obviously unbelievable team with some of the best All Blacks I ever played against," he said.

"Some are recently retired and they are going to be pretty scary, but like us, they have a few older blokes as well. Greg Martin has done a fantastic job and it should be a great show.

"I know Daryl Gibson and Jamie Hamilton, who work for the Crusaders, from my time with them at Leicester and they were affected so it was a no-brainer for me saying yes to playing. I have played a lot of rugby in Christchurch and have deep sympathy for those affected.

"Getting guys like David Campese out of the woodwork is special and people will want to see that. Seeing guys like Christian Cullen, Justin Marshall and Jeff Wilson is fantastic. These guys are absolute rugby legends."

Meanwhile, former Wallaby centre Robert 'Danny' Kay has died aged 75. The Victorian midfielder won two caps for Australia, against New Zealand in 1958 and the touring British & Irish Lions the following year.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.

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