New Zealand coach Brian McClennan has defended his decision to recall Stacey Jones from retirement for Saturday's Tri-Nations final against Australia. Jones will attend the birth of his third child in Auckland on Thursday before flying 12,000 miles to play.
"We only have two professional number sevens in the world. One of them, Thomas Leuluai, is injured and Stacey is the other," he said.
"Having Stacey Jones here with jet lag is our best option by a country mile."
The 29-year-old, who will play for Les Catalans in Super League next season, had initially intended to play in just the opening two games of the tournament.
 |  I can't say enough good things about him he really has shown his dedication and commitment. It's great to have him back again |
But when replacement Lance Hohaia was ruled out of the rest of the tournament by an ankle injury, he was given permission to play by his new club.
Provided the birth goes according to plan, Jones should join his team-mates in Leeds on Friday.
Saturday's match will be Jones' 40th for his country, while captain Ruben Wiki, the world's most capped international, will make his 50th appearance.
"That really shows how important the jersey and his team-mates are to Stacey," said McClennan.
"I can't say enough good things about him he really has shown his dedication and commitment. It's great to have him back again."
Second row Frank Pritchard will miss Saturday's game after suffering a head injury in last week's win over France, with meaning David Kidwell, David Solomona and Ali Lauitiiti will compete for two spots.
Stand-off Nigel Vagana returns to the side after serving a one-match ban for his challenge on Great Britain's Paul Deacon.
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